Mental illness is not always visible. It isn’t always obvious when someone is struggling, and sometimes the person suffering may be the very person who believes they don’t deserve help.

I want to run the London Marathon for Mind because I know how important it is for people to have somewhere to turn when they feel like they have nowhere else to go. I want to help challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and remind people that struggling does not make you weak, and asking for help does not make you a burden.

Most importantly, I want people to know that recovery is possible.

I never thought I would get to a point where I could say that. There were times when I genuinely believed I would be trapped in my eating disorder forever. Recovery hasn’t been perfect, and I still have difficult days, but I am learning to live again. I’m learning to enjoy food, experiences, relationships and life without letting anorexia control every decision I make.

I’m running for the version of me who once believed there was no way out.

I’m running for everyone who is currently fighting a battle they don’t know how to explain.

I’m running for the families and friends who desperately want to help someone they love but don’t know where to begin.

And I’m running to show that your darkest chapter does not have to be your ending.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount, you’ll be helping Mind continue to support people experiencing mental health problems and work towards a world where no one has to face their mental health alone.

Thank you for reading my story, believing in what I’m doing, and helping me turn something that once nearly destroyed me into something that can hopefully help others.

Because I’m not running to prove how far I’ve come.

I’m running to help someone else believe they can make it too.