Laura is a lead PCN Pharmacist working East Yorkshire. In August, she’s joining a group of fundraisers to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Laura has generously chosen Pharmacist Support as the charity she will fundraise for. We caught up with Laura to find out a little more about herself and her fellow fundraisers, and how they’re preparing for the Yorkshire Three Peaks. 

Can you tell us a bit more about the fundraising group?

The group comprises a real mix of friends and colleagues from across the country, joined through word of mouth or social media. Many of us are either part of the pharmacy profession or friends of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Some of us have never met and have only chatted through social media! We’re excited to be meeting for the first time on the day of the walk.

What are your reasons for raising funds and awareness for Pharmacist Support?  

I get lots of messages from pharmacists who are struggling in many different ways, and I want to continue to support them and highlight the vital work that Pharmacist Support can do for them. It was important to me to raise money for a charity that gives my colleagues the help they need when they need it. 

How has preparing for the Three Peaks been beneficial to your own wellbeing?  

To prepare, many of us are walking longer and longer distances to build up to the big day. The opportunity to do this has been a great way to encourage our own fitness and therefore our own wellbeing. I personally spend a lot of time exercising to keep myself fit and well, coaching and playing rugby and now training for the 3 Peaks.  

What piece of advice would you give to a pharmacist, trainee or pharmacy student struggling with their wellbeing right now?  

As a pharmacist, I am no stranger to the stress and pressure that comes with the role, especially during a global pandemic. If I could provide advice to any of my colleagues, it would be to recognise your own limitations. Take regular breaks to do things you enjoy, realise there is life outside of work and your wellbeing matters more than pushing yourself to burnout, and that you cannot ‘pour from an empty cup’ – take stock and refill. 

Why would you encourage others to organise a community fundraising event? 

I’d encourage others to join us in fundraising for the sense of community and the sheer joy that it brings to gear up and get ready to do something so worthwhile. We are going to be meeting people, working together fundraising and exercising in such an exciting adventure all in the name of a good cause. What’s not to love?! 

You can support Laura to raise vital funds for Pharmacist Support by sponsoring the Three Peaks challenge. All funds raised go directly to supporting those across our pharmacy family and ensure no one has to face challenging times alone.