Running in support of Maternal Mental Health.

One in every 1,000 new mothers can develop postpartum psychosis — a terrifying, life-threatening mental illness that can strike suddenly after birth. Up to 15% of women experience postnatal depression or anxiety in the year after birth. In the UK, there are around 20+ specialist Mother & Baby Units (MBUs) where mums can receive life-saving care together with their baby. But on the entire island of Ireland — none exist, meaning mothers with severe illness are still admitted to general psychiatric wards, often separated from their babies at the most vulnerable time.

Northern Ireland is currently the only part of the UK without an MBU and the Republic of Ireland also has none. When a close friend suffered from postpartum psychosis, it was thanks to specialist care in an MBU that she made a full recovery — but so many women don’t have that chance.

I am participating in the Prague marathon on May 3rd, 2026, to raise funds and awareness for Action Postpartum UK & Ireland (APP), so more mums and families can access proper support when they need it most.

Even if you cannot donate, a like or share will help spread the word and is so appreciated. ❤️

APP is a UK charity dedicated to ensuring that mums, parents, and families are supported through postpartum psychosis – a severe but treatable form of mental illness that affects 1,400 new mums in the UK each year. We offer information and peer support, facilitate groundbreaking research, raise awareness and campaign for improved services. Our life-changing peer support network helps women and families affected by postpartum psychosis feel understood, supported and less isolated.