Hello, my name is Neil Crook and I work in the Catering Department at Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust. This is my story.

Following the breakdown of my marriage I struggled with mental health issues, this only worsened when I rushed straight into a toxic relationship and began heavily drinking until, eventually, this relationship broke down too. I found myself in a downward spiral, but with the help of the Wigan and Leigh Mental Health Team I began working towards my recovery. I was prescribed medication and referred to see a psychiatrist, but at one point, I actually came close to being admitted to Leigh Psychiatric Hospital. However, I paid them a visit and got to meet some of their patients; this was a huge eye opener for me and I became determined to turn my life around.

I began to push myself to get out of the house and stumbled across a local running club it was this I contacted the man nicknnamed 'The Wigan Runner.' Initially, the though of joining the running group was extremely nerve-wracking, But I was determined and found myself surrounded by a welcoming and supportive group of people. Since then, I never looked back! I found it beneficial being able to bond with some of my peers over our similar mental health struggles, and I now run with the group every Tuesday and Thursday. Not only have I achieved things like running the Wigan 10k and the Windmill 10k, I have also made some fantestic, lifelong friends in the process. I don't know where I would be now without this group.

From a work perspective; the Management Team in the Catering Department have supported me every step of the way along the road to recovery, and I have also been able to sign up to a 'Steps 4 mindful Living' course that is run by the Trust's Wellbeing Team. All of this has been incredibly beneficial, and I am pleased to say I am no longer on medication and look to the future with a positive and enthusiastic mindset.

I have decided to run the Wigan Helf Marathon on Sunday 22nd March 2020 to raise money for Mental Health UK. This charity helps people, like me, who are struggling with mental health issues to turn their lives around. This charity is extremely close to my heart, and despite being my biggest challenge yet, I know it will all be worth it! If you can help in any way that you can and would like to make a donation to Mental Health UK please do so on this page.

Thank you,
Neil Crook