This Christmas, my friends, Henry and I are donning our elf ears and festive gear to take part in Mental Elf 2025 — a Elf Run to raise money for Mind, a mental health charity.

In May 2024, I lost my beautiful friend Lauren to suicide. She was warm, funny, and full of light — the kind of person who could make you laugh even on your darkest days. I wouldn’t be half the person I am today without her. I will forever cherish every memory, every moment I got to spend with her.

Losing Lauren has left a hole in the lives of everyone who knew her. It’s also a reminder of how many people silently struggle beneath a smile.

To honour Lauren’s memory and raise awareness for mental health, I’ll be running for Mind, a charity that offers life-saving support for anyone battling mental health difficulties. Mind provides a safe place to turn when things feel unbearable — helping people find hope, strength, and the help they deserve.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps Mind continue their vital work: listening, guiding, and supporting those who feel alone.

This fundraiser is for Lauren — for her kindness, her laughter, and the love she shared with so many.

And it’s for everyone who’s fighting a battle that can’t always be seen.

Let’s keep talking.

Let’s keep reaching out.

And let’s do it for Lauren. 💙