A WOMAN who has battled mental health illness, depression and anxiety for four years, will embark on a gruelling 280-mile West to East run from Aberystwyth to Southwold to raise funds for the charity Mind.
Debbie Matthews, who works at Specsavers in Droitwich and Stourport, will start her run on Sunday, June 20, and hopes to cover the distance over a fortnight.
She will have her family and friends joining her for sections of the journey from Wales to Droitwich to give her moral support.
When Deb fell victim to her conditions she tried a variety of medication but it proved ineffective.
The only treatment she found helped was going outdoors and running and she set herself monthly targets and milestones to achieve, boosting her self-esteem and confidence.
She said: “During this difficult time, I have come across people in my job who are experiencing a mental health illness.
“So many people are feeling depressed, anxious and/or stressed.
“I’m raising money in aid of Mind, raising awareness for those who may not know who to turn to when seeking support for the mental state they may find themselves in.”
Click here to see ‘Deb’s West-to-East Challenge’ Facebook page and here to donate to Deb’s cause.
