My Ealing Half Marathon for MindFood: Growing Minds, One Step at a Time

Hello everyone, and thank you for visiting my JustGiving page!

On 28th September 2025, I'll be lacing up my running shoes to take on the Ealing Half Marathon. This year, the 13.1 miles mean so much more to me because I'm running for a cause incredibly close to my heart: MindFood.

I first got involved with MindFood in the summer of 2024, and from the moment I stepped into their allotment near Hanger Lane, I knew it was a special place. It’s not just a garden; it’s a haven.

MindFood provides free, vital support for people in our community struggling with their mental health. They don't just talk about wellbeing; they grow it. Through gardening, mindfulness, and creativity at their beautiful green spaces in Ealing, they offer a non-judgmental, calming space where people can learn, heal, and find a sense of peace.

I’ve seen firsthand how getting your hands in the soil, nurturing a seedling, or simply being present in nature can quiet a busy mind. I’ve witnessed the quiet conversations, the shared laughs over a cup of tea, and the tangible sense of achievement when someone harvests something they’ve grown themselves. MindFood is a true lifeline for many, described by its members as a "haven" – and it’s a charity that our community is incredibly lucky to have.

Why am I running?

13.1 miles is a long way. It requires perseverance, resilience, and a positive mindset—something that everyone at MindFood is working towards every single day.

Every step I take will be a reminder of the journey people face with their mental health. It’s not always easy, but with support and community, you can keep moving forward.

Most importantly, I’m running so that MindFood can continue to offer their free courses—like 'Growing Wellbeing' and 'Sustainable Wellbeing'—to anyone who needs them, ensuring this safe and welcoming space continues to thrive.

This is where you come in.

By sponsoring me, you’re not just buying me a new pair of trainers! You are directly helping to fund these free courses. You're helping to pay for seeds, tools, and tea for the allotment. You're contributing to the resources that make mindfulness and creative sessions possible. You are helping to grow a healthier, happier, and more supported community in Ealing.

Any donation, big or small, will make a massive difference. Together, we can help MindFood continue their crucial work.

Thank you so much for your support. It means the world to me, and it will mean the world to everyone at MindFood.

Let’s do this!

Petko