Back in 2016, after having my third baby, I decided enough was enough. I'd piled on the weight and just wanted to get fit again. I thought I was starting a weight-loss journey, but what I actually found was something that completely changed my life.

Running became my therapy. It cleared my head, lifted my mood and gave me something positive to focus on. Before long, I was running 5Ks most days, taking on 10Ks and even half marathons. I was doing all of that while still battling alcoholism. Looking back, I probably should have realised then that running wasn't just helping my fitness – it was trying to save me.

In 2022, I got sober, and every year since I've run the York 10K for a charity that's played a part in my recovery. York in Recovery, Changing Lives, Restore, and now Chocolate & Co. Every single one of these charities has helped me become the person I am today. They're the reason I'm sober, the reason I have a job, and the reason I have a roof over my head.

So this year's run isn't about chasing a personal best (although I won't say no if it happens!). It's about giving something back to the people and organisations that never gave up on me. If raising a few pounds helps someone else get the same support, hope and second chance that I was lucky enough to receive, then every mile will be worth it.

Thank you so much for supporting me, it really does mean the world.