I am running a 10k.

This may not sound dramatic, but please understand: I am not a runner. I am more of a "brisk walk to the kettle" kind of woman. If you've ever seen me run, you'll know this is no small undertaking! So this is going to involve effort, training, and probably a few conversations with my knees. Thankfully, Lisa from Choc & Co has taken on the challenge of trying to get me 10k ready... whether she regrets that decision yet remains to be seen!

But I'm doing it for Choc & Co, a charity that's incredibly close to my heart.

Choc & Co began from loss, after losing Claire and Damien to drug overdoses. Two lives, two families, and so much love changed forever. Life shouldn't have to be this way... yet for far too many people, it still is.

Our charity exists to bring hope, support and opportunity to people whose lives have been affected by addiction, trauma and disadvantage. We believe everyone deserves kindness, dignity, support and the chance to build a different future. Choc & Co provides the space, encouragement and nurture to help that journey begin.

It's messy. It's tough. There are no quick fixes. But the people we work alongside inspire me in ways I never knew possible. Some days, simply getting out of bed is an act of incredible courage... and yet they do. Watching them keep showing up, keep believing, and keep taking one step at a time reminds me why this charity matters so much.

So yes, I'll be huffing, puffing and questioning my life choices for 10k, but every step is for Claire, for Damien, and for everyone who deserves a better way forward.

If you can spare a few pounds to support Choc & Co, I'd be so grateful. Every donation, no matter the size, will help us continue changing lives and means the world to me. ❤️