Those who know me well know will be aware of how much I struggled with my own mental health during the first lockdown. The reason I love my job is because it involves people and being at home with limited personal interaction was tough for me. I make no secret of the fact that if it wasn't for my family & friends, my colleagues and the amazing work my company did ensuring we have  access to helplines, like those provided by CALM, lockdown would have been far harder than it was (and I really found it hard personally) for me.

I am told that CALM’s helpline and webchat are busier than ever during the pandemic so any funds I can raise to support their work in addition to any additional awareness of their services will hopefully help others who are not so luck y to have the support network I am fortunate to have.

I am going to row 50k a week on my indoor rower for every week of the national lockdown (and I am really hoping it is only 4 weeks) which is basically just over a marathon a week on the rowing machine (42.195k is a marathon) which should equate to 200k if we are lockdown for just 4 weeks.

I am going to stream each row, which wont be pretty for those of you who saw the photos from the 2 x 5k row's I did for the run for heroes (long story why I did it twice), and look forward to any supportive comments (or abuse) during each row.

In addition I am going to abstain from alcohol for the lockdown period too in an attempt to also highlight the unhealthy impact alcohol has on general mental wellbeing.

I am hoping that you all will support my challenge and support this cause by pledging a minimum of 10p a KM (£20 total). 

CALM (The Campaign Against Living Miserably) is leading a movement against suicide, the single biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK. 

Their goal is a life less miserable for you, your friends, your family and for all men, tackling the stereotypes of masculinity, suicide and mental health. 

CALM PROVIDES A free and anonymous helpline and webchat staffed by trained professionals to support men with the challenges life can throw at them.

To find out more visit www.theCALMzone.net 

Help me help them save lives.