Mind over Matter
Ella Davis from Belfast has set herself an immense challenge of running 6 marathons in 6 days in 6 counties of Northern Ireland to raise money and awareness for mental health – ‘CHALLENGE 6’.
Coming from a sporting background, running has always been a passion for Ella. However, growing up in this space, Ella was accustomed to hearing myths like ‘the lighter you are the faster your run’, and so, subconsciously, her battle with mental health began.
Ella has been slowly clocking up the miles in training the past few months which has come with its own setbacks, overcoming knee and quad problems, along with the mental battles of ‘just keep going’. Reminding herself that the challenge isn’t just those 6 days in May – it’s every step of the way to get there.
Growth isn’t found in your comfort zone, it’s about overcoming setbacks and preparing for the challenges life has to throw at us.
“Having overcome my own personal journey with mental health I am hoping to help others do the same. I hope with this challenge that I can show people that if me, an average, ordinary girl can have the strength to get through what will undoubtedly be a very hard 6 days, that they too can have the strength to get through whatever they are facing. I know I’m not alone in the mental health issues I have faced but I also know I’m not alone in having the strength to overcome them. I hope I can show people that”, Ella Davis.
Starting in County Derry/Londonderry, Ella will tackle her first marathon before moving on to Tyrone Fermanagh, Armagh, Down and Antrim. Running a total of 146 miles in 6 days.
Ella’s chosen charity is ‘MYMY’. A Co.Down based charity that has been operating since 2008. They are an organisation focused on helping people raise their self-esteem, their self-awareness and to develop a better understanding of self-care. This helps individuals acquire a greater sense of confidence and self-respect, a priceless attribute in life’s journey.
If you would like to donate to Ella’s £6000 target you can do so via her Go Fund Me Page.
Useful links:
Exercise is, and always has been, a great way to help combat mental health issues. If Ella has inspired you, check out our running guide - here.
If you, or someone you care about is struggling, you might find these useful:
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
