Like millions I live with depression and anxiety, conditions which create a lot of testing scenarios for me in day to day life. Along with a lot of amazing support that has helped me navigate these scenarios over the last few years, in 2018 I got a free gym pass from my GP with a view to hopefully further boost my physical and mental health. A few days at the gym here and there - with the structure and focus it brings - I really started to see changes to my mood and outlook. Within a year I had completed a couple of triathlons and a half marathon, challenges I never would have thought about going near, but what I would now consider some of my biggest achievements. I am now really excited to say I will completing THE London Marathon in April 2022!

As with those previous challenges I will be raising money for Mind. Mind offer unique, vital and amazing services to those experiencing mental health problems. They offer support and guidance to individuals themselves and also campaign for the improvement of mental services across the health network. Such groups need our support in return, in funds as well as with raised awareness, and it is critical they continue to support and be supported as I and many of us know first-hand. More about Mind can be found here: https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/.

There were times over the last few years that I was in some very low and dark places, ones that I cannot fully relate to or comprehend now, but ones that I know require consistent and persistent hard work to move away from, to create positivity, strength and purpose. I am extremely determined and excited to do my very best in this marathon, for myself and for Mind. I am putting a lot of time into planning and focusing myself and my training, to hopefully inspire others and to raise vital funds. 

Thanks for the support :)