Imagine walking 111km across Devon in just 24 hours — from the windswept sands of Westward Ho! to the sea at Paignton, climbing over Dartmoor under the stars. That’s what we’re doing to raise vital funds for The Devon Clinic, a charity providing affordable counselling and mental health support for people who need help but can’t always afford it.

When I first came across this challenge, I knew straight away that I wanted to take part. What started as a team of around 20 people has gradually become a much smaller group as the months of training have gone on, but I was lucky enough to have a couple of friends stick with it and take on the challenge alongside me.

Mental health is something that is incredibly close to my heart. I've battled my own mental health challenges in both the past and present, and around seven years ago I reached my absolute rock bottom. I genuinely couldn't see the point in carrying on. I believed no one would miss me, that no one needed me, and that there was no reason for me to be here.

One day, overwhelmed by those thoughts, I left the house after sending my husband a message telling him I didn't want to live anymore. I drove away in tears, not caring what happened to me.

Thankfully, with the support of my husband James, my two best friends, and therapy, I found my way back. Looking back now, I don't know where I would be without them.

This challenge isn't just about completing a walk. For me, it's a reminder of how far I've come from the darkest point in my life and an opportunity to help others access the support that helped save mine.

More importantly, it's a chance to raise awareness and funds for people who may be struggling right now, people who feel lost, alone, or unable to see a way forward. Every penny raised will help provide vital support and remind someone that they are worthy, valued, and deserve to be here.

If sharing my story encourages even one person to reach out for help, or helps one more person access the support they need, then every step of this challenge will have been worth it.

Thank you so much for supporting us and this incredible cause.