I never started life as a runner. I was one of those kids who found ANY excuse to miss PE. But after I had my own kids, I discovered the amazing parkrun, a brilliant local running community and the magic power of running. Running - and the friends I have made through running - have got me through ups and downs and taken me to places I never thought I'd go (like muddy ditches...) From 4am dawn jogs at the height of COVID to the odd city marathon, running gives me headspace and time to refocus. 

On the 6th November I will be on the start line for the New York Marathon. Early hopes of a decent run round have been pretty much scuppered by COVID and then a knee injury. So my aim is to get round, enjoy the sights, the people and the experience.

I'm running to raise money for Caring Minds and specifically for the SIAS partnership. SIAS is a partnership of organisations who provide end-to-end support to tackle alcohol, drug or gambling addictions. This includes everything from expert medical support to the crucial process of getting people's lives back on track. 

Their peer supporters know first-hand what this journey feels like. I spoke recently to someone how talked about how one of their biggest challenges was keeping busy and finding ways to spend their time: time that their addiction had eaten up. Getting back to work was firmly in their sights but to do this, there was a lot they needed to get back on track. Caring for their toddler was top of the list but they also spoke about how important some of the activities the partnership provides was to them. By climbing mountains and going cycling, they'd done things they didn't think they could do, built confidence and got the positive buzz that comes from being out and about, getting your heart beating a bit faster and spending time with people who get your situation.

Addiction affects everyone from all walks of life. Some people have access to a great support network through their friends, family and workplace. But many people don't.  This is where the great work of the SIAS partnership comes in. 

I'll be gritting my teeth and dealing with some downs and hopefully a few ups on the 6th November. When I feel as if my legs and head won't work, I will think about the people SIAS supports and the tough path they are on in some cases for months and years.  

So please do donate what you can to support this life-changing work.