Despite having a spine condition, physical disability and knee injury, Emily Nuttall was determined to overcome adversity and support the charity which helped her battle her own mental health crises, which have included several suicide attempts.
She has set herself a series of challenges this year to raise funds for its education, training and support services, and to shed light on the impact of suicide.
Having completed the Brighton Half Marathon last month, Miss Nuttall said she felt brave enough to take her crutches to London for her first full marathon. She reached 18 miles, and raised over £3,000 for the charity.
Her two support runners, Alex Sweet and Emma Walters, both from the Richard Whitehead Foundation, helped her to finish the race.
‘To be honest, doing it on crutches was exhausting but I tried my hardest,’ she said.
‘I was so disappointed in myself and shared a message online saying how I felt like I’d failed. But everyone has been so empowering, supportive and encouraging with their words, and have made me feel so incredibly proud of myself and realise what I’ve achieved.
‘I’m so grateful to have amazing friends, family and colleagues supporting me. My support runners, Emma and Alex, have been my hope and inspiration. Alex finished the race for me and kindly gave me his medal – without them I wouldn’t have been able to do it at all.
‘The crowds at the marathon were amazing, and people were screaming out my name, it was really lovely. The experience has been a really big motivation for my mental wellbeing, and changing my mindset.
‘Yes, I have physical challenges, but I can still do certain things in my own way, and as best I can. 18 miles on crutches is actually still a big achievement.
‘And while it was a challenge – it’s nothing compared to the challenges that people face with mental health, trauma, grief, silent addictions and suicide.’
Miss Nuttall has been working for Grassroots Suicide Prevention for the past two years.
As part of its lived experience advisory group, she works in its women’s hub and on its various education and medical training projects, including the Staying Alive app. The app features a ‘Find Help Now’ section, which includes tailored resources for specific areas – including Guernsey, in collaboration with Mind Guernsey.
‘Grassroots gave me the light, strength and hope that I so desperately needed to keep living and to grow the Emily I am today,’ said Miss Nuttall.
‘It means so much to me. I’m nearly three years suicide attempt-free because of Grassroots saving me in the despair and darkness.’
Miss Nuttall has so far raised more than £3,300. She can be supported at https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/emily-nuttall-london-marathon-26grassroots
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