As everyone who knows me will tell you, I’m a mad-keen cyclist. So keen, in fact, that I gave up my car because I prefer pedalling. It gives me freedom as well as exercise.

Not everyone knows, though, that my cycling is a big part of keeping me on the right road as it helps me combat the any stresses of every day life. I learned how important this is when I suffered from a serious eating disorder over 20 years ago.

I was incredibly lucky. I had NHS treatment, I had brilliant, unwavering support and love from my husband, children and friends. Against the odds, I survived and got on the long, challenging road to recovery. I also twigged that to keep going, I needed as many resources as possible, and this is where Suffolk Mind came into play. At a time when mental health was not talked about much, through them, I found the support I needed. This undoubtedly helped me build my life back better, and I’ll never stop being grateful.

I’ve always tried to give back in kind by volunteering and supporting others. On top of that, I’ve now completed the Mental Health Toolkit training from Suffolk Mind and I’ve become a Mental Health First Aider at Coes. It’s given me the skills to signpost and support those facing mental health challenges, either their own or in someone close to them.

So, long story short(!), it’s natural that my fundraising attempt for the wonderful Suffolk Mind should involve a lot of cycling. And maybe an ice-bath afterwards. Please do give a bit of money if you can – you’re really, really helping people.