Join Tom Harding on his challenge and run/walk for Katy!

"This November, I'll be running from London to Bristol, 280km or 7 marathons, to increase awareness around the dangers of alcohol and to open up a conversation that needs to be had at all levels - from friendship groups to businesses to parliament.

My sister, Katy, passed away two years ago having struggled with alcoholism for over a decade, she was only 30.

She was an incredible person. Funny, beautiful, ridiculously intelligent and she loved her friends & family so much. Her dependence on alcohol had become a vicious spiral, impacting relationships, career prospects, and mental & physical health. No matter how hard she or her loved ones tried, she couldn't escape.

I strongly believe that modern society needs to change its relationship with alcohol. Low prices, lack of health warnings, glamorous marketing, cultural acceptance (even praise) of drinking and a negative stigma around discussing drinking problems, create a world that encourages excessive alcohol consumption.

Too many people are suffering, both directly and indirectly. Whilst I am fortunate in many ways, the impact alcohol has indirectly had on me, my parents and anyone lucky enough to have met Katy is irreversible.

I'm partnering with Alcohol Change, a fantastic charity whose mission I fully believe in. In their own words: ‘we are not anti-alcohol; we are for alcohol change.’

Alcohol Change are working tirelessly to create a world free of alcohol harm and has been so supportive of my run and personal goals. They are the original team behind Dry January and other amazing campaigns, with their support I am confident my run can have an impact.

Fortunately, there is a real movement towards 'sober curiosity' and sobriety, and I am confident change is close in terms of social acceptance of not drinking. I am looking for partners, so if you are or you know an alcohol-free drink, fitness or wellness brand, please get in touch.

More change is needed and I will continue to be vocal, challenging the government and alcohol brands on a lack of health warnings on alcohol in physical and online shops, plus regulation on marketing campaigns.

I massively appreciate your support and donations. I would also love to see as many of you as possible on the run, either in Bristol, en route, or at the finish line in London... more details on how to join coming soon, any donations are massively appreciated."

Tom Harding 👊

How can you get involved?

You can get involved to support Tom by running/walking in person with him or virtual where you are and fundraising to help him achieve his £25k target!

Set up your fundraiser via this campaign page and let's #RunForKaty

Thank you!