Hi, I’m Michelle.

In memory of my dad, who I sadly lost to a gambling addiction in September 2024, just a few days after my wedding, my sister Emma and I are taking on a year long running challenge. We’re doing this to raise awareness of gambling harms and to fundraise for YGam, the UK’s leading charity focused on preventing gambling harms through education.

Emma is taking on an incredible challenge, one race every month this year, including a marathon. I’m taking on my own personal challenge of running 62 miles across the year, one for every year of my dad’s life, as I slowly rebuild my confidence and manage the anxiety that followed his passing.

I’ll be sharing our journey on my social media accounts, Beyond the Bet, on TikTok and Instagram (links below). I’ll be sharing my dad’s unique story, and what I’ve learned about gambling addiction, grief and men's mental health.

At its heart, this challenge is about starting conversations, removing stigma, and raising awareness of gambling harms, all while supporting a charity making a real difference.

If you’d like to join us for a run, a race, or simply cheer from the sidelines, we’d absolutely love that. And if you’re able to donate, no matter how small, we would be so grateful. Thank you so much for your support. 🫶🏻

TikTok link: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyond_the_bet?_r=1&_t=ZN-92qt0V3LhDS

Instagram link:

https://www.instagram.com/beyond.the.bet?igsh=ZnU3ZXMzbDltMzJv&utm_source=qr