Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have recently been roped in by the Strachan family to run in the Great South Run (one of my least favourite activities). I thought it would be nice to turn some short term pain into long term gain, and raise money for this amazing cause. 

The last year has been incredibly hard for everyone, leading to more diagnosed cases of mental health illnesses than ever before. For me, this year was the hardest I have ever had to face. After being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Type 2, I found myself lost and overwhelmed, not understanding what the condition really was, or how it would effect me in the long run.  The help I received was not quick enough due to a lack of funding to the NHS by our government. Supporting charities like Mind, who advocate for those who suffer from mental illness is essential. These charities form a platform to influence the government in a way that individuals like myself cannot. Whilst early intervention isn't a solution, it can help start to prevent things like suicide or hospitalisation. This only becomes possible with increased funding, awareness and destigmatisation. 

Mind as an organisation also provides countless sources of information to help those suffering, supporting or even just looking to be educated. Mind provides place to really grapple with, and learn about different conditions that so many people suffer from. 

The work Mind does is crucial following the last year, and any money donated to the cause will provide help for so many more people in a similar situation to myself. Thank you for any donations or well wishes for my poor legs!