Helen Harrall

Why I’m Running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for Mental Health UK ❤️

Why I’m Running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for Mental Health UK ❤️

In April 2027, I’ll be taking on something I never imagined I would do — the London Landmarks Half Marathon.

And I’m not doing it just for the challenge. I’m running it for something that has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.

Mental health.

I’ve chosen to raise money for Mental Health UK because mental health struggles have had a huge impact on my family, particularly through my mum’s own experiences.

Growing up, I saw first-hand how difficult things could become. Mental health isn’t always something you can see from the outside. You can’t always tell when someone is struggling, and sometimes the person who needs help the most can be the one who finds it hardest to ask for it.

For me, this isn’t just about raising money for a charity. It’s about raising awareness of something that affects so many people and families, often behind closed doors.

My mum has faced severe mental health struggles throughout my life. There have been incredibly difficult periods, times when things felt frightening and uncertain, and moments when I wasn’t sure what the future would look like.

But there has also been support.

The help, services and people around my mum have played a huge part in helping me keep my mum in my life. That is something I will never take for granted.

That’s why Mental Health UK is a charity that is particularly close to my heart.

Now it’s my turn to do something.

I’ve already taken on my first ever 10K, and apparently that wasn’t enough punishment because I’ve decided that running 13.1 miles through London is the next logical step! 😂

It’s going to be a challenge. There will definitely be training runs where I question my life choices, probably a fair amount of complaining, and undoubtedly some very tired legs!

But every mile will have a purpose.

I’ll be running for my mum.

For everyone who has struggled with their mental health.

For the families and friends who support someone they love.

For those who are struggling silently.

And for the people who need to know that they are not alone.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how big or small, I would be incredibly grateful. Your donation will help Mental Health UK continue supporting people affected by mental health problems and help make sure that people and families can access the support they need.

And if you can’t donate, that’s absolutely okay. Sharing my fundraising page, talking about mental health or simply checking in on someone you care about can make a difference too.

So, April 2027… here I come. 🏃‍♀️❤️

13.1 miles. One very personal reason. And hopefully a lot of money raised for a cause that means so much to me.

Thank you for supporting me — and more importantly, for supporting Mental Health UK. ❤️