My brother Chris and I are participating in the virtual ride in support of CALM ( Campaign Against Living Miserably) and in the memory of our close and much loved friend, Nelson Pratt, who tragically died in 2012.

Due to Covid this years Tour De Test Valley has been cancelled and instead participants will now complete their own unique ride from any location they wish. Chris and I will be riding a Scottish, northwest coast route, covering 108 miles through some of the most stunning and mountainous scenery in the U.K. This, we are sure, will pose a challenge. 

The ride means a great deal to us for a host of reasons. First and foremost to honour Nelson's memory but equally to help raise awareness towards mental health while breaking the stigma, reminding people (especially men) that there is no weakness in reaching out, that feelings of unworthiness, fear, anxiety and depression are quite natural human emotions. 

The fact is that we all might go through an episode or even episodes of declined mental wellbeing within our life time, as emotional beings it is inevitable that we may face adversity and challenges and when we do, it is important to know we can reach out and talk because it is talking that helps us to resolve our conflicts and soothe our internal pain. Beyond that, having support can help us reconnect. Episodes of depression, fear and anxiety disconnect us from our selves and from others. It is so easy to isolate but connection is what we need as humans. Expressing what is inside of us and feeling supported and understood are fundamental human needs - A trouble shared in a trouble halved. CALM helps us to connect and reach out when we have no place else to turn or when we might need it the most.

On a personal level, our own family has also been directly affected by suicide. Losing our own father Murray, in 1988, has meant that it is something we have lived with since we were small children. We understand that the right support and opportunity to reach out is needed for both the suicidal and those directly effected. For those left behind, this is something you never completely recover from. For a family, losing someone to a suicide is utterly devastating and words can not describe. 

Nelson was not only a dearly loved friend but also a mentor to me. He was a truly special soul and it seemed everyone he touched felt the same way. During our years living in the French alps together we all shared many great times together. Whether riding the mountain, having beers at the bar, traveling, sharing our thoughts and feelings or cooking up a storm at home, moments shared with Nelson were always special.

Despite our current, challenging financial times, if you would like to show your support towards CALM and aid in helping to support and prevent suicide then we would greatly value any donation you're able to gift. A few pounds can go a long way.

Best wishes

Duncan & Chris.

If you would like to read more on this topic I have linked a thought provoking article from the Huffpost, written by Marcus Chapman, one of Nelsons closest friends. 

https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/marcus-chapman/suicide-can-take-anyone-e_b_17701118.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAL6v4Taoticb94uomhIGbvnEVyVPpUiAjAEzi35pLGlRQCqVyi9wSRf1l7dopiBMtg1-7bMuAInC3cTAmPqk68p86dNKvJesse-ASWc4ug-uE1c2JrVwz2_ZFudR5LrzWabjyxuQ6oN-lYVO93XZaA8ufhJxc-QaIftMbDZWfQYB

A little about CALM...

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide. Through our life-saving services and campaigns that drive cultural change, we work with people to push for a life less miserable for you, your friends, your family, and, well, everyone.CALMs helpline and webchat services directly prevented 675 suicides in 2018.OUR SERVICES:> Webchat and helpline (0800 58 58 58) from 5pm - midnight every day. The line is free, confidential and anonymous, and staffed by trained professionals.Through high profile campaigns we help destigmatize mental health and suicide, and tackle stereotypes around gender. Check out #Project84 #BeTheMateYoudWant and #GrowAPair]