Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Each year 1 in 4 of us experience a mental health problem. This year, I have been 1 of those statistics. 

I’m sharing this to raise awareness and hope that if you are struggling in your own mind too, that maybe this will help you know you’re not along and to reach out to someone.

2023 has been an incredibly tough year and through a crisis in my life that I found difficult to navigate my way through, my mental health has been impacted and I didn't know how to cope with this. At times I didn't think I would be able to cope and my mind became clouded with thoughts and feelings that overwhelmed me.

It's not something I have openly talked about with many people for various reasons, but those who know have supported and guided me through this. We often choose not to talk to everyone, and that’s ok, but choosing to talk to someone can go a long way. 

I consider myself to still be on the road to recovery and as I seek further help through my family, friends and counselling, I have gained such a strong appreciation for those around me in my own inner circle and the wider world who struggle as they face into their own mental health battles. 

Running has been a passion for me for a long time and something that has always supported my mental health. I've taken part in a few organised events in the past. Embarking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon isn't just about going the distance in an amazing setting, it's a reminder for me that I am on the journey to overcoming some really tough times. Having my husband and children see me across the finish line will be all the fuel I need to make it to the end. Their faces are my daily reminder to keep going, keep fighting and to be kind to my mind.

I want to find ways to pay the support I have received forward and fundraising for Mind is something that now sits very close to my heart (and my head). The resources and support available through Mind help people to gain some sense of control at times in their lives when they feel like they have lost control. 

If you are able to donate a little or a lot, I promise, it will all go a long way to supporting this incredible charity do more, for more people. 

If you are reading this and have struggled with your own mental health or encounter issues in the future, please do reach out to someone you trust and speak up, or visit www.mind.org.uk for help and guidance. It’s so easy to bottle things up and disregard your own thoughts and feelings, but what I have learnt is that simply talking and sharing your fears, worries and complicated thoughts can guide you to a better direction. Something that you think you can never voice and has grown so big in your mind, can have the pressure relieved once it is shared with someone who can advocate for you and be there to listen. I wish I had spoke to those I trusted sooner. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.