Mine and my family’s life changed when our brother, son, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin, James passed away suddenly at the age of 29. 

Whilst Jimmy didn’t take his own life, the last 5 years of his life were particularly difficult for him. Despite very difficult days, James still showed up everyday, gave to others and showed up - be it to work, seeing family and friends and being a pillar of support with an abundance of love to give to everyone. James was gorgeous, the life and soul of the party and genuinely the coolest dude ever! Not a day goes by where I do not think about him, and miss him. But talking about James and doing things in his memory “help” the grief. 

On the 3rd of April, a day before James’s 5 year anniversary, I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for Mind, and also in honour of my baby brother. Everyday someone is battling a mental illness, they may look fine on the outside, but we may not always know their internal struggles. 

Let’s be kind to one another, ask how someone is. It’s small, but will make a difference xxx

This year, I'll be lacing up my trainers and taking on the challenge of running a half marathon. To motivate me to give it my all, I've decided to simultaneously raise awareness (and money) for local mental health charity, Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest. In any given year, mental health problems will affect one in four people in the UK, responsible for the largest burden of disease in the country affecting 28% of the population. Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest offers a range of support and services to members of the community who are struggling daily with their mental health. Just £25 could pay for a low-income client with serious enduring mental health issues to attend a Managing Anger and Difficult Emotions group.Grateful for any donations!