The Survivors Trust would like to say a big thank you to Erin and Caitlin, who raised £1,134 for us by running the Manchester Half Marathon. We really appreciate their fundraising efforts, and hope that readers will find their story as inspirational and inspiring as we did.
“We chose to run the Manchester Half Marathon because it is one of the biggest events in the North West and we thought it was a big challenge which would allow us to gain a good amount of sponsors.
We chose to raise money for TST as we believe everyone deserves to be heard, supported and seen. TST provides survivors, their family members and friends with educational resources, practical resources and emotional support. It is a platform that provides strength, passion and support for all. We believe everyone should know about charities such as TST, as they’re so crucial to supporting and saving so many lives, just by being there. No one should ever feel alone after such a horrific experience.
Running was new to both of us, having never ran more than a 5k before. We knew that it was going to be a challenge both physically and mentally. However, we trained together and supported one another all up to crossing the finish line together. Being able to know that we crossed that finish line not just for ourselves but for all survivors out there was an incredible feeling.

The crowds were amazing, and it was wonderful to see people supporting other runners so positively. Seeing all the other amazing runners and first time runners who were all pushing themselves and doing their own challenges, was such an empowering feeling, that they were all humans. A smile and a few words like ‘keep going, you got this’ go such a long way. It really shows that you can do anything you put your mind to.
After the event, we felt very proud of ourselves. Knowing that we raised awareness for such a great charity and knowing that the donations will support people to gain the vital and necessary support they deserve after such awful time/s in their life. We were both aching a few days after but all the pain was worth it!”