Warning: Distressing Content
At CPSL Mind, we are continually inspired by the courage and openness of those who choose to support our work. Today, we are honoured to share the story of Becky Milner, a 35-year-old registered nurse originally from Herefordshire and now living in South Wales, who will be running the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon on 8th March 2026 in support of CPSL Mind.
Rebecca’s journey is one of unimaginable hardship, strength, and resilience. Her determination to use her experience to help others is nothing short of extraordinary.
Why Becky Is Running for CPSL Mind
“Mental health is really important to me,” Becky shares. “National Mind and all Local Minds do amazing work. I’ve suffered with my mental health, and so has my family, but because of the stigma around talking about mental health, these struggles often went unnoticed until it was too late.”
For Becky, supporting mental health charities isn’t a gesture—it’s deeply personal. She knows what it feels like to reach a point of desperation, and she knows what it means to survive.
“I was lucky to be saved and resuscitated after my suicide attempt. I’m here to share my experience and support those who still suffer in silence today.”
Her goal for the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon 2026 is clear: to break stigma, raise awareness, and ensure that no one feels they must hide their pain.
A Journey Through Crisis
Becky’s mental health struggles peaked in 2017, during a period when she was also battling alcoholism. As a nurse, she was encouraged to keep her difficulties hidden. Without meaningful help, she suffered alone.
She experienced six hospital admissions due to overdoses, and despite this, was placed on a six-month waiting list for a mental health review. “I didn’t feel sad, I just wanted to die. I thought everyone would eventually get over it. I didn’t want to cope with life anymore.”
Her final admission was life-changing. During an episode of dissociation—something she didn’t understand at the time—Becky tried to take her own life.
She was found just in time.
Becky was placed on life support for five days. Doctors told her family she would likely survive but may never walk or talk again.
Five days later, she woke up—and spoke.
From there, she began a long and challenging recovery through psychiatric care and rehabilitation.
Strength, Sobriety, and a New Chapter
Today, Becky is six years sober, running half marathons, and back working proudly as a nurse—a role she returned to four years ago.
She never imagined she’d run again, yet she’s now preparing for her fourth half marathon and her first time running the iconic TTP Cambridge Half Marathon route. Training through cold, dark evenings hasn’t shaken her determination.
Her goals for 8th March 2026?
“I’ve been a runner since childhood—my dad was a marathon runner himself—so this feels like coming full circle.”
Becky will be cheered on by her family and husband on the day—a reminder of how far she has come.
Why Mental Health Matters to Becky
“Mental health is a taboo subject that is grossly misunderstood,” she says. “It doesn’t discriminate—by age, sex, race or intelligence. Our brains are trained to survive and hide our downfalls. People may not even realise they’re struggling when they’ve been programmed to ‘be strong’.”
Becky believes strongly in the work CPSL Mind does and feels it aligns closely with her own mission: ensuring that no one suffers in silence.
Becky’s Advice for Anyone Struggling
“Reach out. Get support from the right people. And don’t let a substance cause more damage—it will never fix the problem.”
Thank You, Becky
Becky’s bravery, honesty, and commitment to helping others are truly inspiring. We are honoured that she will be running the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon 2026 for CPSL Mind.
Her message is clear: no one should have to reach rock bottom before receiving help.
We’ll be cheering her on every step of the way.
You can support Becky at The TTP Cambridge Half Marathon on Sunday 8th March 2026, and you can donate by clicking here.
If you would like to take on a fundraising challenge of your own or take part in the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon as part of Team CPSL Mind, get in touch with the team at: fundraising@cpslmind.org.uk
Thank you for your support. Fundraising helps CPSL Mind to develop, grow and deliver our vital services across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire.
If you are experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis, there are people who can help you. You can access the NHS First Response Service to speak with a mental health professional by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option.
You can also visit our ‘Get Help Now’ page for a full list of organisations and contact information to support you.
If you have been affected by addiction, please visit: Drug and alcohol addiction – useful contacts.
For local help with substance misuse, please visit: www.changegrowlive.org
