I've done this all a bit late because running a marathon is something I have always wanted to do. Yet I have been terrified of running one. Now, I cannot back out! You can even count this as birthday present if you like.

I have been there. I have struggled with Depression for a great deal of my life. Feeling worthless. Not feeling wanted. Feeling that my life has no meaning and contemplating ending it a few times. Other times spending days in bed and not wanting to talk to anyone or even message anyone.

We live in a world of growing pressure from all fronts that demands more and more from us. All to often we feel unable to meet those demands. Connections and support are strained. Mistakes are made and too often we feel that we cannot live with them. 

We have probably all seen people affected with mental health issues and depression. Perhaps suicide is a little too close to home. If not then there are plenty of beloved celebrities and heroes who, for one reason of another, and in one way or another, have had their lives cut short. It is something that can affect all of us regardless of gender, race and sexuality.

Running has been my saving grace. It has helped me to actively try and change my life. In my darkest moments, where seemingly no one has been around, I was able to run and listen to Eddie Pinero 'Your world within'. Now I want to see how much my life is worth! I want to run in honour of all those that we have lost and on behalf of those we are losing.

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide, the single biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK. Our goal is a life less miserable for you, your friends, your family and for all men.CALM PROVIDES>A free and anonymous helpline 0800 58 58 58 and webchat (5pm-12am daily) staffed by trained professionals>Bereavement support >A website www.theCALMzone.net with inspiring content by men for men>Campaigns tackling stereotypes of masculinity, suicide and male mental health.Help us save lives.