Thank you so much for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page and for supporting this incredible cause.

This year will be my fifth time taking part in the Two Castles Run — the 10km race from Warwick Castle to Kenilworth Castle, a place that means a great deal to me as I lived opposite Kenilworth Castle when I first returned to the UK after spending 12 years in South Africa.

This run feels even more special because, after recently becoming a proud ambassador for Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcester Mind (CWW Mind), I wanted my first fundraising event as an ambassador to support a charity that is doing life-changing work for people struggling with their mental health.

I originally entered the race with the hope of fundraising for a charity, and although I was only recently accepted onto the event, I’m hoping there is still enough time to raise at least £250 — money that could genuinely make a difference to somebody who needs support.

Mental health awareness is something that is deeply personal to me.

Growing up, I was often labelled as “the naughty child” and experienced a lot of bullying throughout school. It wasn’t until I was 15 that I was formally diagnosed with autism, and suddenly so many things finally started to make sense. Unfortunately, like many autistic people, I struggled with my mental health for a long time.

What many people don’t realise is that a very high percentage of autistic people will experience mental health difficulties at some point in their lives — not because autism itself causes poor mental health, but because of misunderstanding, isolation and feeling different. That lack of understanding is something I’m passionate about helping to change.

There was a time in my life when I was in a very dark place. I struggled with self-harm, suicidal thoughts and feeling lost. Finding magic gave me purpose, confidence and passion, and it ultimately became my full-time career. But I also know how important it is to have support systems and charities like CWW Mind available for people who are struggling.

In April 2022, I witnessed a suicide at a train station — an experience that profoundly affected me and reinforced just how important mental health support truly is. Suicidal thoughts are far more common than many people realise, and sometimes simply asking someone “Are you OK?” — and asking twice — can genuinely save a life.

That experience, combined with my own personal journey, made me even more determined to raise awareness, support others, and encourage people to speak openly about mental health.

That is why I am so proud to support CWW Mind through this challenge.

If you are struggling with your mental health, please never be afraid to reach out. Charities like CWW Mind, as well as organisations such as Samaritans, are there to help. You are never alone, even when it feels like you are.

Every donation, no matter how small, means the world and helps support people who may be fighting battles nobody else can see.

Thank you so much for your support.

“It’s OK not to be OK.”

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Winnie the Pooh