From Struggle to Strength: How Running and Community Transformed My Life
By Kellie Newell
Corporate Volunteer
Our March contributor is Kellie, a corporate volunteer that has worked across our projects to support the work we do, as well as fundraise for Pecan. We appreciate the kindness from our local and wider community who choose to volunteer with us, so read on to find out why Kellie volunteers and is choosing to run the London Marathon for Pecan.
‘I needed a change, but I wasn’t sure where to start.
Running became that starting point.’
I started running for my mental health. At the time, I was struggling, feeling stuck in a cycle that wasn’t doing me any good. I wasn’t taking care of myself properly, and my mind was weighed down by stress and unhealthy habits. I needed a change, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Running became that starting point.
At first, it was just about getting outside, moving my body, and clearing my head – but over time, it became so much more. Through running, I lost four stone, quit drinking, and found a sense of purpose I didn’t know I was missing. But the biggest transformation didn’t come from the physical changes, it came from the people I met along the way.
‘Community played a massive role in my journey.
The support, encouragement, and shared experiences kept me going on the tough days.’
Community and Pecan
Community played a massive role in my journey. The support, encouragement, and shared experiences kept me going on the tough days. It showed me that none of us have to do this alone, whether we’re battling personal struggles or taking on big challenges. That’s why working with Pecan and running the London Marathon for them felt like the right thing to do.
Pecan’s work is all about community, lifting people up, giving them the tools and support to build better lives. Whether it’s through employment support, food projects, or community events, they’re there for people who need a fresh start, just like I did. I know firsthand how life-changing it can be when someone believes in you and gives you the space to grow.
The London Marathon
Taking on the marathon is a huge personal challenge, but it’s also a way to give back. If I can inspire just one person to start their own journey, whether that’s through running, seeking help, or finding their own supportive community, then every mile will be worth it.
I’m not the fastest runner or the best, but that’s never been the point. Running isn’t about being the quickest, it’s about showing up, pushing through, and proving to yourself that you can do hard things. Last week I did a 17K run before work, which gave me a big boost of confidence for the big day!
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Kellie, Corporate Volunteer
There’s something truly special about Pecan and the Southwark community. It’s a place where people show up for each other, where kindness and resilience bring people together. The work they do changes lives, and the people behind it are some of the most caring and dedicated I’ve ever met. I’m running this marathon for them, and for myself, because community, support, and kindness always win.
Kellie’s final thoughts on the marathon: ‘I‘m at the hard part, now – less than 8 weeks of thinking of nothing else. It literally takes over your life. I’m doing London landmarks half marathon as one of my long runs on the 6 April, and raising funds for Alcohol Change. Wish me luck!‘ LINK
