I will be running again this year at the Great North Run 2022. It is such an amazing event, which I feel so lucky to have experienced last year and look forward to again. This year I have decided to raise money for Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. I am raising funds for a local hospital in the trust that is dedicated to supporting patients with mental health needs. I feel passionately about raising awareness on mental health needs and support. I also want to show my appreciation to the people that work everyday helping those in need.

Although in society we have progressed in recent years there is still so much stigma surrounding mental health, leaving some people not knowing where to go or who to turn to when they desperately need help. I will forever be grateful for the support we received from our NHS last year and this is my way of giving back.

So, if you feel you can spare any donations, no matter how big or small, it would be very much appreciated. If you cannot donate, please share my page, even just getting the message out there that 'you are not alone ' may just help someone in desperate need.

Running is not easy and finding the time to train has been tough, but I love a challenge and I will always push myself to achieve my goals. Thank you, Louise .