Katie Davies, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner at Sefton Talking Therapies, shares her journey from first half-marathon to full marathon in support of her fundraising for Mental Health Matters. Katie is now preparing for her biggest challenge yet, taking on the London Marathon in 2026.

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A bit about me - I am a movement enthusiast! I very much enjoy exercise which includes several forms of fitness such as running, weightlifting and cricket. This enthusiasm transpires into my role as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) where I give my all to those I work with. I am passionate about supporting individuals with mental health difficulties to help them to see that life is very worth living.

I ran my first half-marathon in October 2023, which was the MCR Half Marathon, after being so inspired by learning about the benefits of running for our mental health during my PWP training year. I did this with my colleague, and we were cheered on by our other colleagues throughout the training process. Following this, I completed the Silver Jubilee Bridge Half Marathon in June 2024 before completing my first full marathon in September 2024, which was the Morecombe Marathon. They say running is 70% mental effort and 30% physical, and I can understand why. It was one of the hardest but most incredible things I have ever done! This, combined with qualifying as a PWP for MHM, is one of my greatest achievements to date 🙂.

I am planning to start my training soon, and despite the gruelling winter runs ahead, fortunately, I know that nothing can compare to the feeling of having completed a full marathon, which I am so grateful to get to experience come April 26th!

I can find it hard to stay motivated to train throughout winter, but I regularly remind myself of not only the short-term but long-term benefits of movement for my mental health. Movement helps to manage my stress inside and outside of work whilst improving my mood and overall self-esteem.

I know I will have to push myself to new limits to reach the finish line in London, but I am determined to show myself and hopefully others that absolutely anything is possible when we set our minds to it.

Help Katie to reach her fundraising target