On 17th May I ran the Manchester 10k to raise funds for RMCIA. Thanks to everyone who sponsored me - you helped to raise nearly £200!. It was a bit of a challenge as I had a stitch from 2k onwards and spent the last kilometre with my hand dug in my side trying to get rid of it - which made me look a bit like a one-winged chicken!
We had our 'Bring and Share' event tonight and as well as eating too much chocolate (again) I've come away feeling really inspired. We talked about all the skills, experience and knowledge that we've gained by either coping with having a mental illness, or though caring for a loved one who has been very ill. You can see all the ideas we jotted down from the discussion - from coming to understand your limitations (and that these can change), to developing patience, coping strategies and learning how to think positively. We understand how mental health services work and different illnesses themselves. It struck me, particularly from the people in the room who themselves have to deal with what can be devastating mental illnesses, that we're a pretty skilled bunch of people. For some, mental illness forces a process of self examination - and eventually self awareness - that is painful but hugely illuminating. It's a process that many of us won't have to go throu...
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