On October 12th, I’ll be running the London Royal Parks Half Marathon, not just as a personal challenge, but to raise money for a cause that played a huge role in me turning my life around — BetKnowMore UK.

BetKnowMore is a small but impactful charity which provides vital support and resources to those struggling with gambling addiction.

It is a charity especially close to my heart as in June 2024 marked a pivotal juncture in my life. For 7 years, since the age of 18, I struggled with gambling addiction. It consumed everything — my time, my money, my mental and physical health, and eventually, my sense of self. I lost relationships, trust, and stability. I fell into debt, became unemployed, and felt completely lost.

When I reached out to BetKnowMore (PeerAid) their support was compassionate, non-judgmental, and, above all genuine. They helped me rebuild, create healthier habits and thought processes to repair the damage caused by years of addiction. Now in recovery, rebuilding my life, and determined to give something back, I cannot thank them enough.

Running this half marathon is symbolic for me. Every step I take is a step further away from the darkest days of my addiction, and closer to the life I’m creating in recovery.

Your donation will go directly towards outreach, peer support, and recovery programmes that offer a genuine lifeline.

Follow me on Strava to check out my training progress!:

https://strava.app.link/UgN7ED2gOSb

And if you’re free on 12 October, come to cheer me on🎉

For more info about the amazing work of BetKnowMore: https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/