Two years ago, we were struggling. With Weight. With life. With mental health.

A journey was begun, taking us both through a huge learning process, and ultimately bringing us to a point where we were no longer struggling, but striding.

A huge part of this journey involved some incredible experiences with former service personnel, which provided us both with inspiration, growing confidence and a sense of community. It created long lasting friendships too.

Mental health is an issue of growing recognition, but it is still seen by many as a taboo – a dark, shameful place that one daren’t mention. With mental health conditions and suicide a leading cause of death, especially amongst men, aged 30-50, this proportion is even greater for those who have served in the armed forces.

Running played a huge part in both of our recoveries and in us getting to where we are now. Running became a therapy, a chance to decompress and to process through thoughts and feelings, events and challenges.

We want running now to help provide this for others too, and can help make this so by raising money for All Call Signs through our first races – a half and full marathon in Taunton, Somerset on 7th April by Clair and Nick respectively.

Neither of us has ever raced, both of us know what a challenge this will be.

None of us are much good at talking about and sharing our feelings and worries – as All Call Signs state ‘We’re sh*t at talking. It’s time to change that’.

About All Call Signs

All Call Signs provides support to those former service personnel who need help and guidance at life’s toughest times – a friendly ear, a supportive chat and much needed acceptance and signposting for further help.

We cannot think of a better cause to support, in terms of the issue they aim to resolve or the community they support. We hope you will help us support them too.

Thank you. Nick & Clair.