In July this year, I lost my sister, Laura at the age of 38.
Like anyone who has experienced loss, there's no easy way to describe the impact. Laura was a much-loved Mum to Ole, Ellie & Jack, a daughter, a sister, and a friend, and her loss has left a space in our lives that can never truly be filled.
Laura also experienced her own struggles with mental health and sadly, our family has felt the impact of mental health challenges before, having also lost my uncle to suicide several years ago.
I know many others who are currently facing similar struggles, whether personally or through someone they care about.
That's why I've decided to take on "38 for Laura."
For every year of Laura's life, I will complete 1 mile, every hour, on the hour, for 38 hours, with a fundraising target of £3,800.
The challenge will begin on Friday 6th November at 7pm and finish at 9:00am on Sunday 8th.
I sincerely hope as many people as possible can turn out on the final mile on the Sunday morning, and support the event and each other, raising the profile of mental health awareness and the work of Isle Listen.
The route will start at the Meadow Gym, and will take me down to the bottom of Royal Avenue, up to the top of Royal Avenue, past Corkhill Garage, down Summer Hill, through Hague drive and back through the park, which works out as 1 mile exactly and I will do this 38 times.
Throughout the weekend, we'll be bringing people together to talk openly about mental health, the importance of community, and how exercise, routine and connection can positively support wellbeing. Alongside the challenge itself, we'll be hosting a community open day at The Meadow gym who will put taster sessions on between 1pm & 5pm with support from local businesses, fitness coaches and mental health advocates.
Every donation, no matter the size, will help support the vital work carried out by Isle Listen and contribute towards ensuring that more people have access
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