Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have struggled with my own mental health for the past 17 years. For a long time I kept that struggle hidden for fear of the stigma that surrounds mental health. I eventually decided that I couldn't hide it any longer and in 2012 decided to "come out" as a person who struggles with poor mental health. It was not an easy thing to do and I was hurt by some people's reactions. Clearly there is still work to be done to end the stigma attached to mental ill health.

Over the years I have found it incredibly difficult to access mental health services and it took 14 years before I was finally diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Anxiety Disorder, and Agoraphobia. One thing that I have found to be helpful is to get outside and walk, although that's sometimes easier said than done!
In 2012 I walked 800kms across Spain which at the beginning was incredibly difficult because of the high levels of anxiety that I was experiencing, but by the time I reached the end I felt amazing!

My intention was to go home, earn some money, and then go off and do some more walking somewhere else. This didn't happen though as I was diagnosed with Cancer shortly after my return and have had a few rough years recovering. My body is now strong enough to start getting out again and I intend on picking up where I left off... It's time to find out if my mind is strong enough too.

I will be walking everyday of January as part of the RED January Campaign (I'm not yet fit enough to run so I'll be walking!) with the hope of raising vital funds needed for MIND - The Mental Health Charity, while at the same time helping myself to feel better. I'm not going to set a daily target as I know some days will be easier than others, but I hope to raise £100 during this month and I will aim to walk AT LEAST 100 miles over the 31 days! That's only £1 a mile! I would be really grateful if you could support me during this fundraiser by donating as much, or as little, as you can afford. If you can't afford to donate anything at the moment, you can still help me by sharing this page with all of your friends and family! The more people who see this, the more chance I have of reaching my goal!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this! 
Jimmy.