Hey everyone, a little update. I’ve been sectioned on an acute psychiatric ward for the past 8 months and have decided after walking a half marathon on the ward, that I want to challenge myself to walk a marathon on the ward in a day and raise money for charity.

I’ve chosen to raise money for a local charity called “Keep Talking Services”. I found out about this charity when I was treated under the mental health community team over Christmas after meeting the founder, Alex. Set up during 2022, this charity runs a telephone befriending service for people of all ages with a focus on supporting people with a mental health condition. Take a look at what they do here: https://www.keeptalkingservices.com

Although this is only a part of my story, I’d really appreciate any support you can give to this charity to help support what they do for so many people.

Whilst studying for an MSc in Physiotherapy, I found myself in an OCD and depression relapse. On Friday, 19th April 2024, after the first of many overdoses, I was admitted to a general hospital and sectioned before being transferred to a psychiatric hospital. Unfortunately, this was only the start. I had to leave my studies and since then I have spent over a year in different hospitals under section.

Most significantly, on October 1st 2024, my OCD took such a hold that I jumped from a bridge. I was flown by the Air Ambulance Service to Kings College Hospital London, where I had two operations for a broken hand and jaw. The staff at the scene and at the hospital, were amazing. I was very lucky to come away with only the injuries I did and still be here. This experience has driven me to fight against these illnesses and finish my studies so I can help others and raise money to help support others. I plan to walk the ward marathon excatly a year since the bridge, October 1st, to show how far I've come!

After spending months under 1:1 and 2:1 observation to keep me safe, I’m now working towards discharge into supported accommodation with 2 carers 24/7 for now, with the plan to stay out of hospital and begin to get my life back. It is charities like “Keep Talking Services” that will help me stay on track and access help in the community.

Previously having been very active, staying in hospital left me sedentary and unfit so this challenge will be even harder, especially with limited space. It’s not been easy but I’m so grateful for all the help I have received along the way and ultimately grateful to still be here.

Thank you so much,

Meadow x