The Spine Challenger South is 108 mile long continuous (aka non- stop) ‘race’ up the pennine way. And I’m totally intimidated by it.

When I entered I knew why. I’d just had knee surgery and been told I could never run again. I believed I’d never travel fast(ish) and light over the fells. That I’d loose my favorite way to get lost in my head. That long days on the hills with even longer conversations with friends would be crushed into short cups of tea. I believed I’d lost something that is who I am and makes me simply and fundamentally soul level happy.

Good Physio, some boldness about what’s possible, some medication, putting up with a bit more pain and I’m back on the hills and that makes me happy. Though I know ‘forever’ is probably not the end of the story. Entering the Spine was about challenging my ability to believe in what’s possible.

And now it here and I need to find out what is possible.

Through all this I realized the true impact the outdoors and running has on my mental well being.

Growing well is a wonderful local charity here in the Lake District doing the front line work to support people with their mental health and they do it through the practical pleasure of growing things to eat and the power of community.

Like probably all us I have people in my life who really struggle with their mental health. Often I don’t know what to do to support them.

Thanks so much all and any support

NOE:

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