The Director of an independent opticians in Canley, Coventry, has embarked on a meaningful mission to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, taking on an immense challenge to raise funds for national mental health charity, MIND.
Emma White, aged 51, is the Managing Director of My Optician in Cannon Park Shopping Centre and last year she made the decision to take on a 50KM Ultra challenge through the Lake District while fundraising for a mental health charity that holds a place close to her heart.
MIND is a mental health charity based around England and Wales, that aims to make mental health an everyday priority. The charity campaigns against injustices within the workplace, healthcare and law, while also providing support to individuals who need it, creating a community of likeminded people as well as a safe space for those struggling with their mental health.
As a firm ambassador of mental health and wellbeing, and having received bereavement support from the charity herself following the loss of her two children and her mum, Emma is passionate about giving back to this worthy cause.
In her efforts to raise as many funds as possible and in honour of her loved ones, Emma will be taking on a gruelling 50km run through rough terrain across the Lake District on Saturday 8th June.
Emma explained just how much this challenge means to her, stating: “I’m excited but also terrified! One of my biggest fears is self-navigation and I will need to confront that to complete the challenge but it’s an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up on!
“The challenge takes place on what would be my daughter’s 33rd birthday and over the years running has become a huge place of solace for me, so it’s all together a really special day and I hope that it will shed a light on this important cause and support MIND in helping others in need.”
As Emma gears up for the challenge ahead, the Canley community have come together to show their support for her cause.
A raffle is being held at My Optician through the month of May, with prizes ranging from branded accessories, to champagne and chocolates courtesy of Tesco and Boots in Canley and a voucher for Penny Farthing Public House on Gramercy Park.
My Optician are also offering minor repairs and adjustments in return for donations of any size towards Emma’s fundraising efforts.
Emma added: “The response from everyone in our local community, including patients, family, friends and other independent businesses, has been incredible. I want to extend a huge thank you to everybody who has contributed or even just offered words of encouragement. It has been heartwarming to see so many people come together for such an important cause.”
With her passion for running starting at the age of 28, Emma has been preparing for the 50KM Ultra Challenge both physically and mentally since December 2023. Emma hopes to get stronger and more confident at both the terrain and self-navigation and will be taking part in the Keswick Mountain Festival towards the end of Mental Health Awareness Week.
If you would like to donate, you can do so via the following JustGiving link here.
