Thousands of people enter the ballot for a place in the London Marathon every year, and Mita Mistry was lucky enough to secure a place in the 2021 race. Gaining her spot in the free ballot, Mita, Clinical Services Manager and Professional Therapy Lead for the Child Development Team in Hillingdon at CNWL decided to raise funds for the charity Versus Arthritis.
Mita said: “it is very close to my heart; as a therapist and the daughter of a mother who suffers from this condition it was very difficult to see.”
Mita has raised over £2,000 so far. There’s still time to donate on this page.
Mita has been running for the last three years in preparation for the marathon, which coincides with her 50th birthday. She started her running journey five years ago by entering local park runs and races, as a way of coping with her mental health. She says: “I was quite anxious about turning 50, so I was hoping to raise funds for charity and run the London Marathon to make myself feel better.”
The marathon took place on Sunday 3 October, and we asked Mita some questions about the race, why she is running and the charity she is fundraising for.
How did you find the race?
“The race day was nerve racking. However, I soon found out others were in the same boat. I talked to other runners on the day and reflected on how great it was for my mental health. The race itself was amazing, tiring, emotional and personally a massive achievement. I loved the day because of the atmosphere and what I have done to help those with arthritis.
“My Mum was super emotional and had lots of friends ringing her to say how much of an achievement it was. You could say she was a very proud mother.”
Why did you decide to raise funds for Versus Arthritis?
“One in six people in the UK, of all ages and backgrounds, have arthritis. The effects are huge, as the condition slowly impacts on everyday life – affecting the ability to work, care for a family, move free from pain or live independently. It’s often dismissed as an inevitable part of ageing.
“People with arthritis are often on medicines that place them into the vulnerable category for Covid-19, which means many had to shield at home. This affects their mental health and wellbeing, which then impacts their physical health even more. This is what Versus Arthritis supports and why I am raising funds, which will go directly to the charity.”
How does physical activity help you maintain positive mental health?
“There is lots of research to suggest physical exercise reduces depression, stress, anxiety and improves our mood. From my personal experience and supporting my mother with her condition, physical and mental health are linked and should not be looked at separately. Encouraging exercise and initiatives like talking a small walk everyday is a good way to look after your mental health and it has a huge potential to enhance our wellbeing.”
What advice would you give to others considering taking on the challenge of the marathon?
I have never run a marathon before, but believe in yourself that you can. You can do it!
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