We are very grateful to Heidi Martini-Smith who raised £396 for us by running the Burnham-on-sea Half Marathon on 8th October. Heidi wrote on her JustGiving page: In October, I’m running the Burnham-on-Sea half marathon and raising money from a charity that is close to my heart, The Association for Post Natal Illness. Their team of volunteers do such important work, providing support to anyone suffering from or affected by post-natal Illness including partners, family/friends, as well as striving to increase public awareness and research.
Last time I did a half marathon I cried, A LOT, and had to get carried over the finish line… at the time I said never again. But with help from the Weston Whippets running group, I’ve come back for more. I’ll be fundraising for a great cause, as well as trying to reclaim my dignity! Women with postnatal illnesses often suffer in silence due to the stigma and guilt of feeling such a way. Becoming a parent is so hard for most, and when this topples into mental illness the extra support is so important. Understanding and empathetic help is hard to come by, although postnatal depression affects one in 10 new mothers. Your donations will make a big difference in allowing APNI to continue their fantastic support to these women.