If you want to know the story from the beginning, I grew up with very little in the way of a support system or family guidance. This led to a life of self-neglect in a ten year cocaine addiction, coinciding with the (quite literal) highs and lows of having Bipolar Disorder for over a decade. When I’m at my lowest I shut myself away; not eating, sleeping, not doing anything. On my way to those lowest points I comfort eat, as I'm sure many others do. It has resulted in the gelatinous blob I call myself today. I also spend a lot of time sat in front of the PlayStation, which although is enjoyable isn't always the best thing I could be doing.

That’s why I’m doing a 'Sponsored Slim' of 9st. All donations will ideally be split equally between two charities: Mind, and Special Effect; although if you feel more strongly about supporting one then that's okey doker - just please donate to both what you can. I aim to raise at least £2500 between the two, so £1250 each would be fantastic. These are two fantastic charities which help give people the support and guidance I didn't have, as well as afford opportunities to others that I take for granted. For my 30th birthday present this year I want to help others reclaim their life, and live it to the full, freed from the chains that mental health and disability can feel like, whilst I reclaim mine. 

Read below for more information about the two charities

Mind are one of the most well-known and fantastic mental health charities, helping and supporting anyone who may be suffering with mental health issues. At least 1 in 4 people will have issues with mental health each year, no one should have to suffer mental health problems alone. More info on Mind can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPxHTZRwXX8

Special Effect are an amazing charity who help people be able to do something that myself and many other people take for granted: play video games. They allow people who love games but normally couldn’t play due to their disability take control; literally! Whether providing modded controllers or the genuinely revolutionary eye tracking system, they are doing truly astonishing work. More info on Special Effect can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/user/GameOnForEVERYONE

Thank you for spending the time to read my story, and please wish me luck!