Back in June I met up with one of my oldest friends Alex. We were talking about how to mark our upcoming half century in 2026 and came up with.....let's run a half marathon!!!

So …on April 12th 2026 we are going to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon and we are raising money for MIND the mental health charity.

MIND fund vital mental health support services and it is a cause that means a lot to both of us . We both have close family members who have experienced mental health challenges and I personally value the amazing resources they provide for relatives . I also see the amazing work they do in my job as a Health Visitor and would like to help them to continue with their vital work.

The reality of what I’ve signed up for is now setting in and training has started in earnest . I now own a glamorous head torch and am clocking up the miles in the dark with my dog .The last time Alex and I ran together was in our lunch break as 6th formers so although we may be a few years older I’m sure all those years of friendship will fuel us around the course and if we finish before the road sweepers that will be a bonus!

If you’re able to donate anything , no matter how small, you’ll be helping Mind support more people in crisis, fund vital services, and change lives.

Thank you so much for supporting us and for standing up for mental health.

Rachel & Alex

xx