Running a 15km race & a half-marathon in June for Thrivin' Together CIC

On Sunday, June 15th, I’ll be taking on the 15km 'The One for the Planet' race at Dorney Lake — and just a week later, I’ll be tackling a half-marathon at Wimbledon Common.

Over the past few months, I’ve let my fitness slip a little, and with the football season drawing to a close, I knew I needed something to focus on — a challenge to build toward. Even better if it could support a cause close to my heart.

Many of you know that I’ve been in recovery from a gambling addiction for the past five years and that has led me to want to give back and support others in a similar situation. Therefore, I’m raising funds for Thrivin’ Together — a safe and supportive space for women affected by gambling harms, founded in 2022 by the incredible Nadine Ashworth.

Having worked across the UK delivering harm-prevention workshops, I’ve seen firsthand just how tough it is to navigate the not-for-profit world. Between chasing funding, supporting those in crisis, and constantly pushing against closed doors, it can be exhausting. That’s why I have so much admiration for Nadine’s drive and resilience. She’s doing what so many of us with lived experience strive to do: using her journey to support others.

I first came across Nadine early in my recovery. She spoke on a podcast I was hosting, and from the offset I was struck by her wisdom and compassion. Since then, we’ve crossed paths through lived experience panels and consultations — and she’s always been there, ready to support anyone I refer her way.

All funds raised will go directly toward providing potentially life-changing counselling sessions for people impacted by gambling, and small but vital “helping hand” payments (supermarket e-vouchers) for those in urgent need of support while they or a loved one seek help.

Thank you, Nadine, for everything you do. You’re a true inspiration.

I shall post updates intermittently about how I'm getting on with my training schedule, and also information about the results of the runs on the 15th and 22nd June.