"With some trepidation, I have signed up to run 10K in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival on May 23rd. I have never run that far before, my max ever is 6.5K and I haven't run at all for a month. My friend Valerie is joining me, if her back allows.

Steven Bonthrone and Peter Williams, marathon runners, have kindly offered to run alongside Rachel, distracting her from the pain, and encouraging her not to give up. Thank you, guys!

We are raising money for Menopause Cafe charity, to reduce the ignorance and shame which, sadly, still surround menopause. The charity supports pop-up menopause discussion groups worldwide: in workplace and in the community, hosted for free, online or in person.

We are also showing that:

* menopausal women CAN learn new tricks

* men can be supporters and allies

Support us as we push ourselves to run 10K at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival on Saturday May 23rd 2026.

It currently feels impossible, but so does the menopause at times. We can get through it with hope, perseverance and a little help from our friends.

It costs £20K a year, to keep Menopause Cafe charity running(pun intended). We hope to raise at least £6K, will you help us?

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity.