Hello you!

If you've clicked through to here then thank you SO much. If you know anything about me, you'll know I am not fit, I am not a gym bunny and I am most definitely not able to run to the end of the street. 

Well, you see, I am sick of being a couch potato and I wanted to do a personal challenge after becoming ill with sepsis twice and having two surgeries, all within the space of 4 weeks. Life is far too short and although sitting watching TV is nice, so is being healthy.

I chose a 5k and 10k so that I could build up from one to another, and I plan on running a half marathon next year - and maybe a full marathon the year after that. The 5k is the Big Fun Run in Coventry on the 9th September and the 10k is the Southport Seaside 10k on the 23rd September.

Samaritans is a charity close to my heart as, although I've never needed them, I am a sufferer and survivor of severe depression. I'm lucky to have a wealth of support from my family and health professionals, but I honestly don't know how I would've survived if I was on my own. 

Samaritans is SO important for those who are vulnerable due to mental health. Having a listening ear can save someone's life and the charity also provides comfort to those who still choose to commit suicide. Which, to me, is harrowing and humbling beyond all belief.

Just £20 would help answer 5 calls, emails or texts from people needing support; £30 keeps a branch open for 6 hours. I don't expect anyone to donate as much as that, honestly, anything you can afford to give will be so, so appreciated. 

If you've got this far, thank you. I will keep you updated with my progress and you can also see me on social media, my Instagram is https://instagram.com/mumsymidwife where I will update my stories and post on my grid. 

Take care, I'm off to the gym! 

Clare xxx

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.