I ran some marathons and an ultra a decade ago. I’ve attempted to get back into the habit of running but have always fallen off. Without challenges and deadlines I have found that my motivation and interest wanes easily. Hence the decision to aim for a race of at least 50 miles before my 50th birthday next year. In the past I have signed up for races but simply not turned up because I wasn’t fit either mentally or physically. More often than not the former rather than the latter. To further keep me commited I decided to raise some money.
Having run marathons for national charities I decided I needed to find extra motivation and choose a charity far closer to home. It was a no brainer (pun not intended, but noted) to choose Haye Mill. For many years now I have been a client at Haye Mill, without their continued support I would be in a very different place. I make no secret of the fact that I contend with depression and anxiety on a daily basis. Fortunately over recent years I have been able to achieve a greater balance to more effectively manage my mental health. Haye Mill has been essential in this.
Even though I have a very supportive family, a truly wonderful partner: the amazing Antonia and 3 gorgeous children, without Haye Mill I wouldn’t be here.
The woefully inadequate mental health support provided by the state is put to shame by the fact that a charity such as Haye Mill can support someone on the mad for over a decade without expecting a penny. While we need to continue to pressure government to adequately invest in the NHS and social services, until that happens charities such as Haye Mill and Mind are essential lifelines.
In short :
My target is to raise £1000 by November 22nd 2022. My commitment is to run and finish a load of rediculously long and challenging races. All you have to do is chip in a few quid.
I’ll post regular updates of me flailing about in the outdoors, injuring myself and other nonsense.
There will be gifts of appreciation for all the generous people who help me help this fantastic charity.
Thankyou all in advance x