When I signed up for the Brighton Marathon 2027, I knew I wanted to run for a cause that truly meant something to me. Choosing YoungMinds wasn't a difficult decision.

From the age of five, I struggled with obsessive compulsive disorder, and at 18 I was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. My mental health has shaped so much of my life, and there have been times where my mind has been my biggest challenge. I've lived through obsessive thoughts, overwhelming emotions, and periods where I struggled to see a way forward. There were years where I turned my pain inwards, and I know how lonely and frightening those moments can feel.

Although I still have difficult days, I'm proud of how far I've come. Looking back now, I often think about the younger version of myself and wish she had known that things could get better. I wish she had known that asking for help wasn't a weakness, and that she wasn't alone.

I've also been incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support of my husband and family. Through the good days and the difficult ones, they have stood by me with patience, understanding and love. Their support has reminded me just how important it is to have someone in your corner, and I know that not everyone is lucky enough to have that. That's one of the reasons supporting YoungMinds means so much to me.

Since becoming a mum, my perspective has changed even more. I want every child to grow up knowing that their mental health matters just as much as their physical health. I want young people to have access to support before they reach the point where they feel lost or hopeless.

Running has become a huge part of my own journey. It has helped me find strength, resilience and confidence that I never thought I had. Taking on 26.2 miles will undoubtedly be one of the biggest physical challenges I've faced since having a baby, but I'm doing it for every young person who is fighting battles that nobody else can see.

YoungMinds works tirelessly to make sure children and young people don't have to face those battles alone. If my fundraising can help even one young person receive the support they need, then every mile, every early morning run and every aching leg will be worth it.

If you're able to donate, no matter how much, I'd be so incredibly grateful. If you're not in a position to donate, sharing my page or cheering me on along the way means just as much. Thank you for supporting me, and thank you for helping me support the next generation to know that there is always hope.