‘I crossed that finish line with the biggest sense of pride’

In the summer of 2024, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after many years of severely struggling with my mental health.

This was a confusing time for me, I had a lot of questions and in all honesty I was quite scared about what this diagnosis meant for me and my future.

I came across Bipolar UK and found the wealth of information on their site, which answered so many of the questions I had.

Watching various webinars and going to peer support groups helped me understand the diagnosis and come to accept it.

Running helped me through some very heavy times

I chose to run Brighton Marathon 2025, which was a huge bucket list / life goal of mine. I had been introduced to running by a close friend a few years before this, to help my mental health and to give me a healthy outlet.

Running became very important to me and helped me through some very heavy times. Choosing to tackle Brighton Marathon just felt like the perfect challenge doing the activity I love.

Knowing I can do hard things is the greatest power

The day was incredible. I have never felt so many emotions in one day; it truly is something special. The marathon itself was one of the toughest challenges physically and mentally I have ever done. It was a hot day, a difficult course, and a hefty 26.2 miles to complete. I am so proud to say that I did it. I crossed that finish line with the biggest sense of pride I have ever felt.

After my challenge, I was so incredibly proud of myself. For completing the marathon distance, for the months of training that went into the race, as well as for the incredible fundraising total of £1,548 for Bipolar UK.

Knowing I can do hard things if I put my mind to it, is the greatest power.