Running for Our Lives
Stories of everyday runners overcoming extraordinary adversity
Rachel Ann Cullen author Amy Grimes illustrator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Vertebrate Publishing Ltd
Published:5th May '22
£12.99
Available for immediate dispatch.
‘Every time I speak to someone and hear about their experiences, it leaves me with a sense of running’s incredible power to help people overcome pretty much anything.’
Each day, millions of people around the world put on their trainers and try to deal with their personal demons and life challenges by going for a run. And, increasingly, they do it knowing that they are not alone: a growing and often virtual community is right there running alongside them. We are all, in some sense, running for our lives.
Rachel Ann Cullen’s first book, Running for My Life, described her own marathon journey through depression, bipolar disorder and body dysmorphia, and her revelatory discovery that running could transform her physical and mental wellbeing. After hearing from people who had read about her experiences, Rachel wanted to tell some stories of other runners from all around the world – ordinary people living with mental health struggles, grief, cancer and other unavoidable life events who have relied on running to get them through their worst days and to keep going. Running for Our Lives shares moving accounts of hope and resilience; it demonstrates the power of running to help us all overcome adversity, and is a lesson for us all in learning not only how to survive life’s challenges, but to thrive.
‘It’s so humbling and inspiring to hear how running has helped people through such difficult and traumatic times. Through her own personal experiences, Rachel is so able to relate to the positive impact running can have on our lives. It’s wonderful that she has enabled truly inspirational people to share their own personal stories, which will no doubt inspire others.’ – Jo Pavey MBE, British long-distance runner, medallist and five-time Olympian
‘Fervent and forthright, Rachel Ann Cullen is the perfect person to share these stories of how, in the darkest times, running always helps.’ – Rob Deering, comedian and presenter of Running Commentary podcast
‘Some of the real-world stories that Rachel tactfully, yet honestly, conveys will kick you in the stomach. This book elegantly weaves trauma we hope we never have to face with the hope that if we do, we might be half as brave as these running heroes.’ – Russell Bentley, ultrarunner and holder of the winter Paddy Buckley Round record
‘What a wonderful, inspiring, thought-provoking book. Full of life-affirming stories through the power of running, woven with reminders to dare to see what’s possible and live bravely.’ – Kim Ingleby, mind and body coach
‘In Running for Our Lives, Rachel uncovers the heroes within the everyday runners, and beautifully captures the joys, questions and vulnerabilities that every runner shares in the life-changing process of putting one foot in front of another.’ – Alex Staniforth, founder of mental health charity Mind Over Mountains and ultrarunner
‘The deeply personal and hopeful stories in Running for Our Lives are relatable, and beautifully illustrate how juxtaposed life events can be – that pain, suffering and sorrow can be countered by healing, resilience and self-compassion. I was drawn to the sensitivity and empathy of Cullen’s storytelling, and I was inspired by the willingness and courage of those whose stories were shared. What affected me most, however, was the affirmation that something as simplistic and lineal as putting one foot in front of the other can help you turn your life around. Running can be the catalyst towards making positive behaviour change; and can encourage you to look within rather than around you for answers. This book is emotive and powerful, and it leaves a footprint on your heart.’ – Evie Serventi, sport and exercise psychologist
ISBN: 9781839811395
Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 15mm
Weight: 450g
224 pages