Christmas can be a beautiful time of year but for many people, it can also be one of the loneliest and hardest.

This Christmas Day, I’ll be in London on my own. Instead of sitting with those feelings, I’ve decided to do something meaningful with them.

I’m raising money for Suicide Crisis, a charity that supports people when they’re at their most vulnerable. This cause matters deeply to me, because I’ve been in dark places myself before. I know how heavy life can feel when your thoughts turn against you, and I know how much it can mean to feel seen, heard, and supported; even by a stranger.

On Christmas Day, I’m going to run a half marathon.

That might sound easy to some people, but it isn’t easy for me.

I’m not a runner. I haven’t run properly in years. This will be uncomfortable, challenging, and very real. And if, by the end of the half marathon, I still have something left in me, I’ll keep going. I’ll run until my legs give out, and see how far I can push myself.

This run isn’t about proving anything.

It’s about showing up for myself, and for anyone who might be struggling right now.

If you’re able to donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every pound raised goes directly to Suicide Crisis and helps fund life-saving support for people who desperately need it.

And if you can’t donate, that’s completely okay. There is no pressure at all. Even just reading this, sharing it, or letting this message reach someone who needs it - that matters.

If you’re reading this and you’re struggling, please hear this:

You deserve to be here until your natural end.

Your life matters.

And if no one has told you today that they love you, let me tell you now: I love you, I care about you, and you are not alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for being part of something that might help someone keep going.

Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.

More information about Suicide Crisis: Our Suicide Crisis Centre in Cheltenham offers a safe place where clients are supported and helped through their crisis. We have a team of dedicated, caring, well-trained people who really want to help.

You matter; you are loved.