LOCAL woman Felicity Seviour, has set about a fundraising campaign to raise £2,000 to be able to run the London Marathon next year.
She will host a pub quiz at the Water Meadow in Melksham on 11th December and is also taking on a series of Tough Mudder challenges to raise money and awareness for the eating disorder charity, Beat.
Felicity was 19 when she was diagnosed with anorexia. It took almost eight months for her to get a diagnosis and a further three months to begin treatment.
Felicity explained, “As someone who has experienced anorexia first hand, I feel that these illnesses need more funding and people need to increase their awareness, whilst reducing the stigma surrounding them.”
Felicity has to raise a minimum of £1,500 to enter the race but would like to raise £2,000.
Felicity continued, “This is the first time I have entered the marathon and it will be a huge challenge for me. I’m not built for running long distance and so I’m changing my training routine for the Tough Mudder challenges so that I can adapt to running 20+ miles.
“I wanted to really push myself as I still struggle mentally. Even positive things can become negative. For example, my exercise became a bit obsessive which is something I struggled with when I was really sick. I’ve had to have some time off and step back from my training. No matter what, my mental health always comes first now.
“I love Tough Mudder but the obstacles are even harder this year, and running the eight-hour overnight Tough Mudder will be an even bigger challenge. Despite this, I still love them as it was my goal to run more than 10 and get my black and orange headband, after I began my recovery. This will happen on the first weekend and I cannot wait. I’ve also made great friends there and the whole atmosphere is amazing.”
The general knowledge quiz starts at 7pm and costs £3 per person with a maximum of five people per team. First prize is a round of drinks for the winning team. There is also a raffle and prizes include a free Sunday lunch at The King’s Arms, £20 off of a treatment at M&H Hair Studio and a free cut at The Fine Barber Company.
Felicity added, “I would say to anyone who is going through a similar thing, speak to someone. Tell a family member or a friend or a teacher because the sooner you can get help the better. There is a lot of help out there, especially through charities like Beat. Don’t let it get out of control.
“I didn’t think I’d graduate last year, but I came away with a 2:1 in acting. This shows how much the charity can do for people.”
Details can be found on Felicity’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/events/205815723155527/?ti=cl
