Tonight I watched ‘Mind over marathon’, about 10 people who have mental health issues preparing to run the London Marathon.
I found it heart warming, emotional, inspiring as it shows how we can overcome things in life by feeling worthy, loved and how important it is to talk about these issues.
Struggle and stress are a part of life, for some more than others. Listening to William talk about the shock of the loss of his mother, still, nearly 20 years on, was truly touching. Rich, poor, old or young mental illness doesn’t discriminate.
The value of speaking to a family member, friend, professional, whoever it is, is irrelevant-it’s the talking that’s important. Listening too, if someone talks to you.
I have struggled on a few occasions with feelings of despair, lack of self worth and it is easy to spiral downwards. Most recently I realised that I was on that path again and with fantastic support from my doctor, family and friends I am climbing up the ladder rather than slithering down the snake. No doubt a throw of the dice can curtail that climb, but I know what to look out for, and perhaps I should take a leaf out of my Grandma’s book and just throw the board in the air and start again!
7 out if the 10 completed the marathon, their utter fatigue and joy tangible in equal measure: all felt they could take something to build on, and will be friends for life.
Truly remarkable people, I was momentarily tempted to run next year, but only fleetingly!
Cheers and well done!
My little life 