September 2023
Steph Wood of Lymm, Cheshire, is tackling the Chester Half Marathon in memory of her friend Charlotte.
Steph says, “For anyone that has been around me this year will know I’m embracing running. I’ve come late to the party as I often do in life and before this year the furthest I’d run was 5km, I certainly wasn’t a runner and to run a half marathon full stop would have been an achievement.
“I am choosing to raise as much awareness and funds for this wonderful charity in memory of a much loved and missed friend Charlotte Sumbland, formerly Oliver by running the Cheshire Half Marathon in memory of her.”
Heartbreakingly, 47-year-old Charlotte Sumbland died by suicide in October 2022 after struggling with symptoms of perimenopause. Earlier this year, a team of friends raised over £4,000 walking in memory of Charlotte. A local support group has also been set up at The White Swan, Swinton, offering support to others experiencing symptoms.
Jenny Haskey, CEO at The Menopause Charity said, “It is clear Charlotte was a much-loved friend to so many. It is truly heart-warming to see the fantastic fundraising efforts of those who knew Charlotte, and the support is a lasting tribute in her honour. The funds raised will ensure we can offer more support and raise greater awareness of the invisible symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.”
To support Steph and help raise vital funds to further awareness and support of menopause, sponsor her online.
Menopause and mental health
Everybody experiences menopause differently, and for some people, it can affect their mental wellbeing. No one should struggle with menopause and mental health, discover what can help.
Please know that low mood and feelings of depression can be very common symptoms along with many other psychological symptoms. Some people can have very negative and intrusive thoughts in that they contemplate suicide. If you have felt suicidal or on the edge, ensure you reach out and speak with someone today through one of the available helplines below and talk about it. They will help you get through that frightening moment and make more sense of your current situation.
Samaritans: call 116 123 or email [email protected]
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: call 0800 689 5652
SHOUT: text on 85258
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): call 0800 58 58 58
