Update: with the Bath Half being cancelled for coronavirus, I am now running the Oxford Town and Gown 10K on June 27th. There will be a few of us doing this event- hopefully still in tie-dye! Apart from not having to run as far :), the other benefit to running this event is that it is in Oxford so if anyone would like to come and cheer it would be lovely to see you! xxx

Previous message: Along with others, I have decided to run the Bath Half on September 5th in memory of my gorgeous cousin Poppy, and in support of her family. We will all be wearing tie-dye to honour her! This last year has been incredibly tough for so many people, with lockdown being especially detrimental for mental health, so I hope to raise money- and awareness- for Rethink Mental Illness.

Poppy struggled with severe depression from 14 to 16 years old, and the pain that this illness brings has been such a devastating thing to see. There have been so many who have been heartbroken by the loss of Poppy, and I really believe there is a lot more to be done to help remove the stigma surrounding mental illness, and to remember that it is an illness just as much as any other physical illness is. 

Rethink Mental Illness not only offers support for those struggling with mental illness but also campaigns to fight the stigma surrounding mental illness, something which is so prevalent. Many people that suffer from mental illnesses often feel guilty for suffering, something that no one should ever feel. Rethink campaign to change laws and provide residential care, a helpline as well as specific support for young people which is really great. The thought of the money I raise going towards helping (save) one person's life is really encouraging me to do this. 56% of young people said they think people with mental health issues their age will be treated differently, and 55% said they would lose their friends. This is something that needs to be changed, and something that Rethink fights for. 

To find out more about Rethink, take a look at their website: https://www.rethink.org/

I have been so lucky to know Poppy- and even to have some of her incredible art hanging in my bedroom. She will be missed by so many who knew her better than I did, but I am unbelievably grateful for the time and memories we had together. 

If you can spare anything, please do donate to this fantastic charity that strives to make a difference to people's lives nationwide. Any donation counts; let's raise some money and help people struggling with mental illness. 

In memory of Poppy ❤️

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