Seven years ago, Denise adopted a three-year-old little boy. Like all children who are placed for adoption, her son had been through traumatic early life experiences. One of the impacts of this, is that he finds it difficult to handle change. So when lockdown was announced two years ago, it had a hugely negative impact upon him.  

For a single adoptive parent like Denise, the combination of lockdown, home schooling and home working was challenging enough. But in addition to this, Denise was going through the menopause, which made her feel as though she was in an emotional fog. 

Running has proved to be a vital outlet for Denise. Getting out for whatever time she can snatch...has been a lifeline. Also by running together - first virtually and then physically -  with the running group Black Girls Do Run, Denise found support, encouragement and friendship at a time of social isolation. Denise’s son describes running as his mum’s “happy place” and he’s absolutely right.

Read Denise's full  story here

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