If the pandemic has taught us anything, it's that the smallest things can make the biggest impact and there's no better example of that than 'Run for Heroes'. 

That's the charity which started the infamous 5km running challenge - Run 5, Donate 5, Nominate 5 - during the first lockdown. 

What started as a plan to raise £5,000 for NHS charities at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic went completely viral on social media, becoming a major fitness motivation and fundraising tool for more than a million people. 

Since its humble beginnings in 2020, Run for Heroes has raised more than £7million for NHS Charities and founder Olivia Strong has been awarded an MBE. 

After the success of the original fundraiser, the nation is once again being encouraged to get active in the name of charity as lockdown restrictions continue to ease. 

Run for Heroes has launched its latest challenge by turning the month of May into a celebration of physical activity with their 5kMay campaign. Everyone is invited to take part, including Alopecia UK supporters. 

As the name suggests, it's all about getting fit and hitting that 5km target. It's not just about running though - you could walk, roll, skip or even swim your 5 kilometres if you wish! All that matters is getting your body moving and raising vital funds for a charity of your choosing (we hope you will choose Alopecia UK!)

Run for Heroes has partnered with a host of charities across the UK for 5kMay, with participants being encouraged to consider donating to causes such as Alopecia UK after completing their challenge. 

Alopecia UK Operations Manager Amy Johnson says: 

"It remains a tough time for Alopecia UK in terms of fundraising. Our income from fundraising activity has been hit by the pandemic and we are uncertain if and when things might return to 'normal'. We are grateful for every pound of fundraising income that comes in to Alopecia UK, allowing us to continue the work we do to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia. 

We would be absolutely delighted if some of our supporters would consider taking part in 5kMay for Alopecia UK. It would mean the world to us to have your support!"

You can take part on your own or as a group, donate your £5 to Alopecia UK, then nominate 5 friends or family members to complete their own 5km challenge. Or if you want to do something a bit bigger with your challenge, you could set up a fundraising page. 

Donate to Alopecia UK's 5kMay campaign here.