On 8th March, I will be running the Chester 10K in support of APP (Action on Postpartum Psychosis).

I am running for my best friend, Penny, who was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis in 2020 following the birth of her second child, Rosie. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Penny and Rosie spent five months at the Brokington Mother and Baby Unit in Stafford, where Penny received specialist treatment and compassionate support at an incredibly difficult and isolating time.

APP is a UK charity dedicated to supporting women and families affected by postpartum psychosis — a severe but treatable mental illness that can occur after childbirth. The charity provides life-changing peer support, reliable information, training for healthcare professionals, and campaigns for better services across the UK. APP also works closely with researchers to improve understanding, treatment and recovery for future families.

I’m especially proud to support APP as services continue to grow — including the recently opened Seren Mother and Baby Unit in Chester — helping ensure more mums can access specialist care closer to home when they need it most.

By supporting APP, you’ll be helping ensure more mums and families receive the care, connection and hope they need when facing postpartum psychosis.