Taking the first step

On Sunday 21 October 2011, 15,000 runners will be taking part in the Bupa Great Birmingham Run. Freedom from Torture's West Midlands Centre Manager Jo Adams will be one of them. Follow Jo's journey on her half marathon training, as she blogs from the start to the finish line.

Working for Freedom from Torture in the West Midlands fulfils a large part of my passion for social justice. The work of this amazing human rights organisation centres on the individual and their presenting physical, legal, social and emotional needs. This holistic approach places the individual and their wellbeing at the centre of service development and delivery. It is a truly client-centred approach.

My limited experience with survivors of torture has already taught me many lessons, not least the strength and endurance of the human spirit, but also the ability to speak of the physical and emotional suffering experienced due to the violence inflicted and the human rights denied to survivors of torture.

My daily work involves seeing clients and managing services. Each day is different and brings a new experience and perspective to my life. I would like to share with you some of my experiences at work alongside a new journey I am taking. I hope this new journey will enhance my own health and wellbeing, as well as raise funds for the adults, children and families who are survivors of torture here at the Freedom From Torture's West Midlands centre.

My new journey involves exercise. This is not a completely new notion for me, but one that I have not participated in for quite some time. I am about to turn my sedate lifestyle upside down and have taken that first, huge step of registering for the Bupa Great Birmingham Run (that's a half marathon!) I aim to raise £1,000, a considerable sum, for which I will need your help as a sponsor, motivator – or both.

In return, I will detail my exercise experiences, with a smattering of work life all the way up to the great day itself....

Please visit my Justgiving page to sponsor me and I look forward to staying in touch along the way!

If you would like to join Freedom from Torture's running team at the Bupa Great Birmingham Run this year, register here for one of our charity places!