I didn’t wake up one morning dreaming of running a half marathon. In fact, for a long time, the idea sat firmly in the category of “things I admire from a distance.” But somehow, after a mix of gentle encouragement, reckless optimism, and one moment of “why not?”, I caved in and signed up for the Leeds Half Marathon on 10th May.

This challenge isn’t just about running 13.1 miles—it’s about running with purpose.

I’ve chosen to support Jenny’s Cat House, a local cat rescue built on compassion, dedication, and an unwavering belief that every cat and kitten deserves a chance at a better life. It has been Jenny’s lifelong dream to rescue stray, abandoned, and uncared-for cats and kittens, ensuring they receive not just safety, but love, care, and dignity. At Jenny’s Cat House, the number one priority has always been doing what’s right for each individual cat, no matter how small, scared, or forgotten they might be.

As a true animal lover and advocate, I felt a strong pull to give something back to the community. Animals—especially cats—are sometimes overlooked in the grand scheme of charities, yet their need for love, care, and support is just as real and urgent as any other cause. I wanted my effort to matter, to stand for something bigger than personal achievement.

By taking on this half marathon, I’m challenging myself physically and mentally, but I’m also running for those who can’t ask for help themselves. Knowing that every training run and every aching muscle contributes to giving vulnerable cats a second chance is what will push me forward on the hard days.

This challenge now has meaning. It has heart. And when race day arrives, every step I take will be for the cats who deserve warmth, safety, and a future filled with kindness.

Please support me on this journey by donating if you can. Even the smallest amount can make a real difference and will go directly toward helping stray, abandoned, and uncared-for cats and kittens get the love, care, and second chances they deserve. Your support means more than just funding—it’s motivation that will push me through training, race day, and every mile in between. Thank you for being part of this challenge and for helping me give something meaningful back to the community.