KFA’s Sales Manager, Nicki Smith to run the Bournemouth Half-Marathon for Brain Research UK
Today is World Mental Health Day and the KFA Connect team are reflecting on how participating in a charity run not only supports a great cause but also boosts mental well-being, offering a powerful way to relieve stress, improve mood and foster a sense of community.
Not only do events like this bring the community together for a meaningful cause, but it also highlights the powerful link between physical activity and mental well-being.
Running, or any form of regular exercise is known to release endorphins—the body’s natural mood lifters—helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, hitting the pavement is a step toward better mental health for yourself and others.
Nicki’s Challenge
On Sunday, 13th October 2024, KFA Connect’s Sales Manager, Nicki Smith, will take on the challenge of the Bournemouth Half-Marathon.
This coastal race, which attracts thousands of runners from across the UK, will see Nicki going the extra mile – not just for personal accomplishment but for an important cause: Brain Research UK.
Brain Research UK is a leading charity focused on funding research to improve the lives of those affected by neurological conditions. These conditions include brain tumours, Alzheimer’s disease, strokes, and epilepsy, all of which have a significant impact on patients and their families.
Nicki’s decision to support this charity is because of her niece, Emily, who suffered a devastating TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) in February 2023 and from a desire to contribute to research that could potentially change the lives of other individuals just like Emily.
Personal Drive for a Big Cause
Nicki is not a health and fitness fanatic, so this half marathon represents a significant step for her, both physically and emotionally. Running 13.1 miles is no small feat, that requires both dedication and rigorous training.
However, what drives Nicki is not just the challenge of the race itself but the opportunity to make a difference for those affected by neurological conditions.
The Bournemouth Half Marathon
The Bournemouth Half Marathon offers a breathtaking route along Dorset’s stunning coastline.
Starting at Hengistbury Head, runners will pass through Boscombe Pier and Bournemouth Pier, taking in views of Bournemouth’s iconic beachfront before finishing in Lower Gardens.
Raising Funds and Awareness
Nicki’s fundraising efforts are well underway, with her fundraising now exceeding her original target of £350. Every donation will go towards supporting Brain Research UK’s mission to fund research into treatments that improve the quality of life for individuals living with neurological disorders.
The funds raised will also help increase awareness about the importance of brain research, which remains an underfunded area despite its widespread impact.
For Nicki, this cause is personal. “I’ve seen firsthand how devastating they can be, and that’s why I’m determined to raise as much as I can for Brain Research UK.”
How You Can Support
To support Nicki’s journey and donate to her fundraising efforts for Brain Research UK, you can click on the button below:
Nicki has been in training for a number of weeks, running three 4-5 mile runs and one longer run of up to 10 miles every week. She has been combining training runs with work by running the 6 miles home from KFA’s Ringwood office, through the forest to Verwood, several times.
As race day approaches, Nicki is focused on her final preparations.
She’ll not only be running to cross the finish line but also to make a lasting impact on brain research and the lives of countless individuals affected by neurological conditions.
In response to what inspired her to sign up for the half-marathon, Nicki said:
“I’ve always found running has a really positive effect on my state of mind – there is something about just getting out there in the fresh air and the feeling after a run is a good one (although my kness often say otherwise! I find it tough, especially as I am not as fit as I used to be, but I know it’s good to have a feeling of having acomplished something and also when you’re doing it for a good cause it adds another level of motivation.
I am running the 2024 Bournemouth Half Marathon with my sister, Polly for Brain Resesrch UK.
Since her Stepdaughter (my Niece), Emily suffered a devastating TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) in February 2023, we as a family have learnt first-hand how no two brain injuries are the same. Predictions of outcomes are almost impossible and medical professionals will say that a person’s outcome/prognosis can never be accurately predicted or determined, but is down to the individual patient, so research is vital.
Emily and her rehab team are working so incredibly hard every day and she is making fantastic progress, but there is so much still to learn about how the brain repairs itself and what can be done to improve outcomes for patients suffering severe TBI.
Brain Research UK are a fantastic Charity and are undertaking some groundbreaking research that without funding, could not continue.
I would be so grateful if you could take the time to sponsor me to help the cause and to motivate me in my training!
I just hope I don’t let anybody down!
Thank You”
xx
Nicki Smith, KFA Connect Sales Manager
