THE COLLEAGUES of a well-known York real estate agent take part in a mental health charity run.
The group of six from Preston Baker Estate Agents will run the York 10k in August to raise money for York Mind.
Honor Davage, Anna Greaves, Megan Griffiths, Jenny Peacock, Julia Pease, and Susan Preston from Preston Baker York will participate in the race.
Susan Preston said York Mind was selected because of the “crucial work” the charity does for mental health.
The group discussed their personal experiences with mental health that have been used to get through the tough spots in training.
Escrick’s Megan Griffiths dedicated her career to her brother, Ellis Griffiths, who sadly lost his battle with mental health five years ago.
She described Ellis, 26, from Bedfordshire, as someone who “could always put a smile on your face”.
Megan said the Mind charity helped her at the time of her brother’s death.
Honor Davage, from Barnsley, has dedicated her career to her boyfriend, Richard Wragg, who lost his battle with mental health last year.
He said Richard, 30, from leedsHe was a well-known character who was always laughing and joking.
Julia Pease, from Leeds, will honor her friend Steve Macdonald during the race, who lost his battle with mental health earlier this year.
She described Steve as an “amazing person and wonderful friend” who could always lift the energy in a room with his “goofy laugh” and make sure everyone was having a good time.
Whether it’s spending more time in the gym or making plans to run, the group is well on its way with training.
Susan Preston, of Pool in Wharfedale, Otley, said:
“Training is going well; I’m running 3 times a week and increasing the distance each time, so hopefully by August I’ll be a pro!
“Along with that, my eating habits have changed to better motivate me for what’s to come and I’ve already noticed a difference.”
For some, running is not a typical activity, so the event takes them out of their comfort zone.
Honor Davage said:
“I’ve been couching up to 5k, I’m not a runner but I’m happy to do it for a good cause.”
Susan Preston added:
“I wanted something to aim for as a goal for my personal fitness, but also to do something for a good cause.
“Mental health is very important to all of us.”
There are mixed feelings heading into the race, but the group has said that working with York Mind will help them cross the finish line.
Julia Pease said:
“I’m nervous and excited about the event, but the reason I’m running keeps me grounded and I hope that turns into excitement on August 7.”
If you’d like to support the group, you can donate on their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/PrestonBaker10kfundraiser
Anyone struggling with their mental health can call York Samaritans on 0330 094 5717
