26 Conversations for 26 Miles – Caitlin’s Campaign for MIND

In May, Caitlin will take on the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon – 26.2 miles in support of a cause that means a great deal to her. But in many ways, her journey started long before race day. Over the past few months, Caitlin has been holding 26 important conversations, each one symbolised by a ribbon that will be tied to her running vest as she crosses the finish line – small, visible reminders of the people and stories that have shaped her journey.

The conversations have covered a wide range of experiences, from mental health volunteers and frontline professionals to people living with mental health challenges, and loved ones lost to suicide. The aim isn’t to offer solutions, but simply to open up space for honest discussion and reflection.

At the heart of the campaign is Caitlin’s belief that talking openly about mental health matters. She describes the challenge as a way to “break the silence, one mile at a time.”

Each mile has meaning - here are some of Caitlin's dedications: 
Mile 1 is dedicated to MIND volunteers, recognising the time and care they give to supporting others.
Mile 4 acknowledges mental health nurses and the vital role they play on the frontline.
Mile 5 is run in memory of a family member Caitlin lost to suicide.
Mile 7 focuses on men’s mental health, an area where stigma still prevents many people from speaking up.

Mile 22 is dedicated to Grace, a beautiful friend who tragically took her own life in 2024. 

Caitlin is fundraising for MIND, a charity that is deeply personal to her. Through this challenge, Caitlin hopes to honour Grace’s memory, while helping to ensure others can access support when they need it most.

Ultimately, 26 Conversations for 26 Miles is about listening as much as it is about running. By sharing these conversations and carrying them with her on race day, Caitlin hopes to show that mental health is something we can – and should - talk about openly, without judgement or fear.