This 45 mile event takes place on Saturday 28th August from Ashton Park School in Bristol. To follow our journey and preparation for this event, visit my blog at https://www.suebatemantextiles.com/blog/categories/charity-runs, or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sue.bateman.758

Without the understanding and support from these two wonderful local charities, Sunflowers in Stroud and Suicide Crisis in Cheltenham, I would have lost my youngest son to suicide last year. He was at his lowest point, after suffering from severe clinical depression throughout his adult life, and I felt totally helpless in being able to make his pain go away. For the first time I felt that someone was really listening and understanding the situation. Abbie at Sunflowers was amazing. She talked to me and later to my son at some length and also advised me to contact Joy at Suicide Crisis in Cheltenham. Nothing I could do would ever come close to showing my immense gratitude for the comfort and support given from both charities, but I hope that, through running, I am able to support them in return by raising funds and awareness about mental health, particularly people who are at risk of suicide through depression, plus the families and friends who are trying to come to terms with the loss of a loved one through suicide. Encouraged by my other son, who is running the challenge with me, I began running about eight years ago as a ’50 something’ who was rubbish at sports at school, particularly running! Running has definitely helped me with my own mental health and I would really encourage anyone to have a go, no matter what age or ability.

There are several events leading up to the Greenman Ultra in August, although, due to COVID, nothing is certain at the moment. Nevertheless, we will be taking part in whatever event is still happening, and training towards this event regardless! My furthest distance before preparing for this event was only a half marathon (13 miles) so this will be quite a challenge for me.

These charities desperately need support, particularly during this very difficult time. They are non-profit and have been set up by people who have had their own personal stories to tell. They do not charge a fee but will spend as much time as it takes to support a person in desperate need until appropriate professional help, if needed, can be found. This may be through the NHS or through private therapies.

Please support me and Rory by making a donation. I would like to try and keep an even 50/50 split between Sunflowers and Suicide Crisis if possible as they are both equally important.

Many thanks!

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.