I will be running the Manchester Marathon on the 2nd April 2017 in memory of Stephen Gartland.

Suicide is the single biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK. Around 4600 men every year decide to take their own life which has a devastating impact on loved ones left behind. Suicide in men is a huge and underappreciated problem and the historical stigma that surrounds mental health in men is such that the majority feel unable to share their problems in fear that it will be seen as a weakness on their behalf.
I am committed to trying to make a difference by spreading the word on mental health amongst men and that #itsokaytotalk. By completing this Marathon I'm aiming to raise money for two causes, the Stephen Gartland Foundation and Andys Man Club #andysmanclub.
The Stephen Gartland Foundation was set up with the aim of providing funds to children requiring operations or means to participate in sport and to support the opening of new support clubs for men.
#andysmanclub was set up and has provided support to a number of people and has gained huge momentum from social media and campaigning, with the #itsokaytotalk gaining global coverage. The organisation is committed to setting up support groups where men can come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they have been facing or are currently facing.

Please support me in supporting these two great causes.