I am running 50km in memory of my Dad for mind this February. 

On 28th July 2004, at the age of 32, we lost my Dad. A day I’ll never forget. I’ve never told my story, only my closest know & I still don’t feel ready but by sharing my experience and raising money for mind, I can do my bit to get people the support they need.

Mental Health problems can affect 1 in 4 people at any time. In 2023, suicide is still the leading cause of death for men under 50. Men are less likely to feel comfortable discussing their mental health. Conversations around mental health are starting to change but there is still such a long way to go which is why I’m sharing my story as the more open and honest we are, we might possibly help others who are struggling. 

Losing a parent at such a young age to mental health is devastating. To the outside he was the funniest man, always pulling silly faces and singing but was obviously fighting his own battles. I’ll always remember listening to Guns & Roses and Robbie Williams in his beloved white car. He loved football especially Liverpool and playing on his PlayStation. He would take us to McDonald’s and blockbusters every Friday and we’d watch telly as a family and then we’d get a treat from boomers on a Saturday. My Dad was so full of love & this had a massive effect on the whole family. 

Only being 9 when this happened I have had to grow up very quickly, to the outside I am this loud, outgoing, head strong woman but I too have my own struggles. The past few months has been bittersweet, moving in with my best friend but also moving out of the home that links me to my Dad has been harder than I thought it would be. The grief started all over again. I miss him so much but I know he’s with me always even if it’s not in the way I’d want.

 Running the 50km this February will also be helping my mental health as exercise really is the best medicine for me. 

Please donate whatever you can, any donation big or small is going to make a huge difference to get people the support they need, when they need it. Thank you for reading my story, please know that if you’re hurting or struggling my inbox is always there. Life is bloody hard but so are we. We are stronger together 🫶🏼