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New Book Release: Defying the Odds to Complete the Melbourne Marathon

Pepper Press

The Bipolar Runner
By Jacqui Louise Swallow
11 October 2024, Pepper Press
RRP:  $29.99

Jacqui Louise Swallow has spent her life confronting the challenges of living with bipolar disorder.

From overwhelming anxiety to paralysing depression to tumultuous manic episodes, Jacqui’s journey has been anything but easy.

Yet the one thing that has consistently helped her find focus and hope has been running.

What began as a few tentative steps—often through tears and exhaustion—has become a potent tool for managing her mental health and living her best life.

In 2023, Jacqui achieved something extraordinary by completing the Melbourne Marathon, which, at her pace, demanded six hours of continuous running. Completing the race also proved to Jacqui that she could overcome the barriers of mental illness and achieve something exceptional.

“For me, running is more than just physical activity—it’s a lifeline,” says Jacqui. “It has helped me more than medication, practising gratitude, or mindfulness. It is where I find my strength, inner peace, and resilience.”

The Bipolar Runner recounts Jacqui’s journey from embarking on her quest to completing the race and beyond through her contemporary diary notes. It is raw, honest, and ultimately uplifting.

It is also a fly-on-the-wall account of understanding the impact of bipolar disorder on those who have it or those who love and care for someone who has it.

ENDS

“In an age where so many people live with their head buried in a digital device, this book inspires us all to get up, get out and get active, regardless of whatever barriers we may be facing.” Tim Ogberg, Founder of Parkrun Australia

 

Key Facts:

The book will be launched at the Sandown Park Hotel, Noble Park (Melbourne) on Friday 11 October 2024 from 6pm by Darren Templeton, Founder of Run for Mental Health and Run the Tan. Media are welcome to attend.

About us:

Jacqui Louise Swallow is a dedicated mum and teacher's aide who has lived with bipolar disorder since her teenage years and, more recently, has also been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and generalised anxiety disorder. Now in her 40s, she has found running to be the most effective way to manage her symptoms. A park runner, in 2023, she took on the challenge of the Melbourne Marathon, embracing the 6+ hour endurance run at her own pace. Jacqui is also an Ambassador for Parkrun, Beyond Blue, Run the Tan and Run for Mental Health.

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Pepper Press is an imprint of Fair Play Publishing.

Contact details:

Jacqui Louise Swallow is available for interviews.

For more information, to arrange interviews, or review copies, please get in touch with Amy hello@fairplaypublishing.com.au or 02 7229 4889.