I'm finally ticking a full marathon off my bucket list! ✅

And I'm so proud to be raising money for the amazing charity, Our Time, whilst I train. A charity very close to my heart, Our Time supports children of parents with mental illnesses. It's something I've struggled to talk about, often feeling it's not my story to tell... But that's just one of the stigmas I want to help break. Mental illnesses can be scary, especially for children and young people when they see their parents go through awful symptoms, and just like you would with a physical illness, you worry. And just like a physical illness, you never blame what's happening on that person, but shame and stigma has meant mental illness has been taboo for too long. I used to worry that talking about mental illness would make my Mum feel guilty. I still do sometimes. But talking helps, and so does tailored support. That's where Our Time helps children - providing safe spaces for them and their parents to talk openly.

I'll be running for the 4 million children who have a parent with a mental illness on 10th September 2023. If you can, I'd really appreciate a donation to my page for Our Time - thank you so much. Lots of love, Sophie xxxx

PS don't forget to tick the Gift Aid box if it applies!