Have you ever wondered what drives someone to lace up their running shoes and tackle a half marathon? Well, let me take you on a journey through my personal experience, where the reasons are as multifaceted as the layers of an onion.

Picture this: early 2022, and I found myself side-lined by a herniated disc, bringing my life to an unexpected halt. While the injury was demotivating and upsetting for many reasons, it helped me see my relationship with fitness transformed from a mere number on a scale game to a profound quest for holistic well-being. It was a wake-up call that whispered, "Take care of yourself, embrace your strength, and cherish your health."

Fast forward to 2023, and the idea of conquering a half marathon seems ambitious yet scary at the same time. With each step, I sought to challenge not only my body but also my mind, to push beyond limits.

And oh, the journey! From gasping for air after a mere 1.5 kilometres to effortlessly gliding through 10 kilometres not once, but twice in a single week—each stride was a victory, each milestone a celebration of progress.

But here's the beautiful part: this journey isn't just about me. It's about the collective spirit of giving back, of making a tangible difference in the lives of others. As I prepare to conquer those 21 kilometres, I invite you to be a part of something bigger, something impactful.

I am running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for Frontline, England's largest social work charity and the only one with a focus on child protection.

Your support today not only improves social workers' skill and resilience in their everyday work, but also improves the future life chances of children and their families as well as contributing to wider social change.

By supporting my endeavour, you're not just contributing to a fundraiser; you're investing in a story of community. Together, we can turn every step of this half marathon into a beacon of hope, lighting the way for those in need. Social change takes social work, it's definitely more of a marathon than a sprint, so get behind us today and help us raise money to help Frontline achieve this mission. Thank you so much.

So, will you join me on this exhilarating journey? Together, let's run towards a brighter, healthier future—one step at a time.