Thanks so much for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page, and read about why I’m taking on the challenge of the London Landmarks Half Marathon.

I feel it’s right to give some context to why I’m doing this. Not only for the sake of fundraising for this run, but for a wider purpose of raising awareness and being open to conversations about mental health. I’m not embarrassed or shameful of what my Dad experienced, and I try to reflect that in my openness about my own experience too.

On Thursday 20th February 2020, my dear and precious Dad lost his battle with depression. Naturally, my life and my world have never been the same since. He was the most brilliant Dad, husband, teacher, colleague, sports partner and so much more. He loved and cared for my Mum, Peter, Rachel and me with all of his big and empathetic heart and he was and still is one of my greatest role models. He cared so deeply, he instilled such confidence and joy in the people he spoke to. I find myself desperately craving his inspiringly unique and one-of-a-kind warm and comforting manner and ways - his essence and spirit is totally irreplaceable.

I go through waves of excruciating heart break, of numbness, of denial, of bartering with his death and more within one day, one hour or even a moment. The fact of his passing will never be one that makes sense to me, nor one that I think I’ll ever be able to accept.

The reason I’m saying all this is because it needs to be heard. People can appear strong or brave or resilient, but it’s likely because they don’t have any other options.

This is where I want to make a change. I want people to have options.

I want people to have the option and chance to change their outcome. I want people to be equipped with the tools, resources, programs, initiatives and relationships that stop them from having to experience the same pain and harsh existence as my Dad, or as my family as a result of his suicide.

That’s where Sport in Mind comes in.

This amazing and passion-fuelled mental health charity use sport and physical activity to improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems. As a family, we feel that Sport in Mind stand for and believe in something really powerful, and know that their work reflects just what Dad was about. Off the back of previous donations, they launched ‘The Mr Crocombe Legacy’ back in April last year which is a specific children and young persons programme that offers them the opportunity to attend accessible sport and exercise sessions to help improve and benefit their mental health.

So all in the name of Sport in Mind, I am taking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon this April. It must be noted however, my taking part is no mean feat, as exercise and running never have, and never will be my forte! However, after a month of Red January earlier this year, I found that I was hating running less and almost feeling like I was getting something out of it. It felt productive and meaningful to me.

With all this said, I somehow convinced myself a half marathon wouldn’t be *so* bad and have really pushed myself out of my no exercise comfort zone in signing up to this.

Your words, support and any donations you can spare would mean everything to me in the lead up to this - and I can only imagine how shocked Dad would be knowing his little poppet was somehow plodding her way round 21km.

Thank you so much. All for you Dad 💙💚

P.S - The more the merrier! If you’re around in London on Sunday 3rd April, come on down to cheer on some amazing runners all taking part for worthy and deserving causes. Would love to see you!