NCL Wellbeing tackle the Great North Run
Some of our wellbeing colleagues ran the Great North Run in support of suicide prevention
24 September 2024
Back in cold and dark January 2024, our Student Health and Wellbeing colleagues were feeling sluggish. We wanted to set a goal to motivate ourselves in the new year to keep moving and active.
We set ourselves a team challenge to run, walk, swim, cycle as many miles as possible over seven weeks. Each week we excitedly recorded our efforts, tracking our progress alongside sweaty selfies, and looked forward to see how far we had ‘travelled’ together from Kings Gate.
We racked up an impressive 1,476 miles—the equivalent of traveling from Kings Gate to Cutar, Spain! Alongside the many miles and a few minor injuries, there was a transformation within our team. Many of us reignited our passion for fitness, while others tried something new, dusting off long-forgotten running shoes. The camaraderie, motivation, and renewed focus on work-life balance were the true wins.
Inspired and full of endorphins, 11 of us decided to take our journey to the next level, taking on the infamous Great North Run – a half marathon which weaves its way through our beloved city of Newcastle to the beautiful seafront in South Shields.
We committed to raising money for If U Care Share Foundation—a local suicide prevention charity that we proudly support. We wanted to give back to shine a light on the great work this organisation does across the NE region in supporting families and loved ones impacted by suicide.
We ran, walked, chatted and cried our way to the finish line, feeling proud of the achievements of all 60,000 runners and a sense of belonging. It really is amazing what can be accomplished when people come together.
This article is written two days post-GNR, on World Suicide Prevention Day. I can confirm that not only do we have all of our toenails intact, we have raised £3,172 and counting for If U Care Share. We believe that talking about mental health is key to changing cultures, reducing stigma and reducing suicide and know that these funds will directly and positively help us achieve this together.
We know not everyone can contribute but, if you are interested in reading our story, please check out our fundraising page - TotalGiving™ - NCL Uni Student Health and Wellbeing @ GNR - Great North Run 2024 - If U Care Share Foundation - Fundraising Page