Hi!

I will be running the London Marathon on the 27th April for Mind. In the UK there is a mental health epidemic - suicide rates are at their highest this century and a huge number of people struggle to get by as they fight against the torments which their minds throw at them. Despite the wonderful work CAMHS does on a daily basis, and I speak from experience, not everybody who needs support can receive it from government support systems. Charity provides a vital extension, helping to reach many more people than government ever could.

It is a story I can relate to. I spent much of my teenage years battling with myself, reaching my lowest point in January 2023. After the kindness of one stranger and a wonderful support network around me, I was able to begin to thrive. Constantly challenging myself on my journey to stability has helped me thrive - this marathon represents another crazy challenge to myself, but one I am super excited to fulfil... with your support, of course!

Conversation has been key to me and it is intrinsic to the work Mind do. Empowering everybody to speak up and speak out whenever something is bothering them is one of the most valuable lessons we can learn today. I was lucky to have a family and be at school with teachers who always listened - Mind makes sure everybody has the same privilege that I did.

This was meant to be a challenge I undertook in 2025. However, after running a few too many half marathons in March, I managed to break my leg. While I was super gutted to defer, I know that it will only spur me on to run more quickly in 2026! 3:20 mins here we come!!!

Thank you so much for all your support - it means so much!

Seb