Why Samaritans?

A few years ago, after a long struggle with my mental health, I was diagnosed with depression and general anxiety disorder. This diagnosis, alongside the eventual treatment and recovery was only possible after I contacted Samaritans.

Having suffered in silence for a long time, I just wanted it all to stop and felt like I couldn’t go on anymore. I had reached the breaking point and was in a very dark place, but had remembered hearing about Samaritans and decided to call. The volunteer immediately created a safe and comforting space for me to finally let it out and talk through everything I was feeling. They talked me down that night and from then on, I was able to open up more and admit that I really needed help. This was the just the start of recovery but without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful.

What am I doing?

I am now the happiest that I have ever been and have found my greatest source of happiness in fitness. More recently, I decided to take up running, and in the spirit of the new year, I have decided to run the 2024 Edinburgh Marathon!

It is taking place on Sunday May 26th so we have 4 1/2 months to raise as much money as possible!

How can your donation help?

All donations go towards enabling potentially life-saving phone calls, whether through training volunteers or keeping the phone lines open. 80% of the funds go straight to these services and only 20% is invested back into fundraising, so every donation is sure to make a significant impact.

I am so grateful for any donation you can make and can’t wait to get across that finish line!