Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters,

As I'm sure you all know, I do not and cannot run...

I am excited to share that I will be running my first ever London Marathon! This is not just a personal challenge but an opportunity to make a difference. I am dedicating this run to raising funds for Mind, a charity close to my heart that supports mental health.

So call me insane, inspirational, or just a bit bonkers! I think it's the latter! The truth is, running the London Marathon has always been on my bucket list. I thought I’d give it a shot, sign up (confident that I wouldn’t be selected), and then I could say I tried and move on. But, life has a funny way of surprising us, and here I am, about to embark on this incredible journey!

You may be thinking, why Mind?

Mental health is an issue that has touched my life deeply. I have seen loved ones, friends, and even myself grapple with the challenges it brings. It’s a silent struggle that many face every day, often without the support they need. Mind is an incredible charity that steps in to provide that crucial support and guidance to those experiencing mental health problems. They offer essential services such as:

- 24/7 Helplines: Providing immediate assistance for those in crisis.

- Counseling Services: Offering professional support to help individuals manage their mental health.

- Community Programs: Helping people connect, share experiences, and support each other.

- Advocacy: Campaigning for better mental health policies and practices.

By supporting Mind, we can help ensure that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.

I have set a fundraising goal of £2,500, and every donation counts. Here’s how your contributions can make a difference:

- £10: Can help Mind provide information booklets to those seeking help.

- £25: Can fund a call to the Mind helpline, offering support in a time of crisis.

- £50: Can provide a one-on-one counseling session for someone struggling with their mental health.

- £100: Can help run a community support group, providing a safe space for people to share and connect.

Training for this marathon is going to be incredibly tough. To help me prepare and start running, I’ve decided to run the Kingston Half Marathon with my partner, Rich on 6th October 2024. Having Rich (another who does not normally run) by my side as we tackle this challenge together means everything to me. His support is sure to keep me going on days when I feel like giving up. The half marathon will be a significant milestone on my journey to the full marathon, and I can't wait to share this experience with him.

There will be days when I doubt myself, when every muscle aches, and when I feel like giving up. But with every step, I will remind myself of the incredible cause I’m running for. Your support will not only motivate me to cross the finish line but will also provide crucial funding for Mind's life-changing work.

I can’t wait to see you all at the finish line for a day of celebration (though you might have to carry me)!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for your generosity and support. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by mental health issues.

With gratitude and love,

Storm