I've recently been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. I couldn't keep track of my life or my work and it felt like everything was crushing down on top of me - so I ran.

I re-took to running as a way to try and force myself to get out of the house on my own. It helped me a great deal when Covid first hit and we were all stuck indoors and I was was hopeful that it would do the same now. I just wasn't expecting how much of a difference it would make. I am now swimming, cycling, running and in the gym almost everyday. It has done wonders for my mental health.

A large part of looking after myself during that time was reading. I was reminded of a part in Atomic Habits by James Clear. He talks of a man who wanted to stop biting his fingernails so booked himself a manicure in the future. Something for him to work towards that would make him feel better that he managed to kick the habit when the time came. Simiarly, I've asked Headway if I could be part of their team fairly last minute - as a chance to give me something to look forward to and work towards.

When the time came to choose a charity to ask, I couldn't think of any others. As part of my work helping seriously injured people including those with acquired brain injuries following road traffic collisions, I have had a lot of experience with Headway and the good that they do.

It is that understanding that makes me proud that Headway have given me the opportunity to fundraise for them in this event.

Whilst I understand that everybody's problems are all relative, my own issues are nothing in comparison to what brain injured people and their families have to go through each and every day.

I would really appreciate if you could take the time to donate to this cause and at the very least, please look into Headway and the good work they do all over the country.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.