I’m Kate, and this is a brief outline of why I’ll be running The Ipswich Half Marathon on 27th September 2026 hoping to raise funds for both Samaritans & Lighthouse Women’s Aid, who I am personally so grateful to🙏🏻

Back in 2022 I experienced a tipping point of domestic abuse and attempted to end my life, being momentarily overwhelmed with emotional pain.

Lighthouse were able to guide me through the dark and help me to understand what was happening to me. Psychological/emotional abuse can be very confusing. A person often believes their abuser is their saviour/soul mate and they are to blame for their own abuse. They often don’t seek to leave, but continually try to be better and fix themselves…losing themselves in the process.

Unfortunately, as is common with many survivors, there was a relapse as I was convinced to return to the relationship.

The abuse cycle continued for another year+ and in that time I called Samaritans many times. I don’t know what I would have done without them. Always a calm, non judgmental voice in a storm.

With the help of long term therapy with Craig Fookes to relearn how to regulate emotions and set effective boundaries, I am well and ready to give something back to those who helped me…if my legs will carry me!

Here’s hoping!!Ha ha!

Please choose which charity you would like to donate to, or both!

Thanks so much. You will be saving someone else from the dark, so they can find the light again. Xx

A few words from Samaritans :

Life can be tough. Sometimes it feels like nobody else understands. If it’s all getting too much to handle you can talk to Samaritans. They won’t  judge or tell you what to do. They’re there to listen so no-one has to face tough times alone. Every 10 seconds, Samaritans answers a call for help. Samaritans can be contacted round the clock, for free, on 116 123, day or night, 365 days a year. It’s only your donations and 23,000 listening volunteers that make sure Samaritans can be there for someone today, so they can believe in tomorrow.

A few words from Lighthouse Women’s Aid:

Lighthouse is a Suffolk based charity that supports women, young people and children who are affected by domestic abuse.

We offer refuge for women, young people and children who are fleeing an abusive situation.

Once you are safe, our team will help you rebuild your life. From sorting out your benefits, to arranging school places and assisting with moving on into a new home when ready.

We also run a women’s centre in central Ipswich. This service is open to women, young people and children affected by domestic abuse. However, anyone is able to contact us for advice.

We are not here to judge you, or pressurise you into making decisions you aren’t comfortable with. Our services are free, and confidential.

For Advice

01473 228 270