On September 12th, I will be running my first marathon to raise money for Mind. I am excited and terrified in equal measure but I can’t wait for this challenge.

The last year has been hard for everyone, and as a musician I found it especially difficult to cope with the psychological impact of losing not only all my work and income but my connection with my friends and colleagues. It wasn’t until this was taken from us that I realised how important such things are to our wellness. 

Being forced to stay at home for so long, I turned to fitness as a means of helping to manage my mental health, and eventually qualified as a personal trainer.  But as 2021 began, I decided it was time for an even bigger challenge. 

Running a marathon has always been a life goal of mine - but one I’ve been too scared to ever admit. A big reason I’m doing this is because I don’t know if I can - and I want to find out. Also, I believe if I’m fundraising then I should be doing something I’m going to find really hard!

Everyone should have access to mental health support, and the stigma surrounding all kinds of mental health issues needs to end. No one has gone through this pandemic without some psychological impact, and I really hope that by running Brighton Marathon I can raise some money for Mind to help the vital work they do supporting people when they’re at their most vulnerable. 

Any donation will be gratefully received - even the smallest amount will make a huge difference. Thank you so much, and I sincerely hope I survive this marathon to thank you on the other side! 

Georgie