Hi, I’m Freya and in October, I’m running the Chester marathon with my close friend, James, to raise money for BEAT, the UK’s leading eating-disorder charity.

This cause is personal to me as I’ve struggled with anorexia nervosa during 2025/26 — a condition that affected both my physical and mental health. It quietly took away parts of me I didn’t realise were slipping: my personality, laughter, passion, concentration, and sense of freedom. Recovery has been a long journey of trying to find myself again. Last year, during a half marathon, I saw someone running for BEAT, and in that moment I promised myself that one day I would do the same. Running has been both a weakness and a strength, but now I run for the right reasons, and I’m proud of myself for being physically healthy enough to do something I once thought was impossible.

I couldn’t have reached this point without the support of my family, friends, and professionals. Recovery is the hardest thing I’ve ever done to battle your own mind and stand up against something far more deeply rooted than a number on a scale. There is more to life than CAHMS waiting rooms, how thin you can get, how much you can exercise and calorie-counting - everyone deserves to live without fear and I am so so so proud to say I’m living instead of surviving. I finally have my passion for football, quality time with family, giggles with my friends, quieter mind, my future and the Freya I’ve always wanted back.

Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses that can affect anyone. Right now, at least 1.25 million (1 in 50) people in the UK have an eating disorder – with millions of loved ones also affected. BEAT offer people emotional support and expert advice, and work to change policies, perceptions, and lives. They certainly helped me during the tough times especially when you feel alone.

Together, we’ll end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. There is always light at the end of the tunnel💜