Sergejs Markuls, one of the referral surgeons at Moorview Referrals, is preparing to attempt his biggest challenge yet and to fundraise and raise awareness of mental health issues within the veterinary profession. Sergejs has only started running and in particular, trail running last year with no previous experience and will partake in the Leeds Endure 24 ultramarathon on the 24th of June 2023. The goal of the challenge would be to complete 75 miles but all the effort will be put to complete 100 miles in 24 hours.

Mental health in the veterinary profession has always been a big subject but it has become more acute following the immense strain of the lockdown and with ever so rising financial crisis. Sergejs, working throughout the lockdown, has felt the strain himself but always had incredible support from close friends and family. Sadly a lot of people would find it difficult to open up to friends and family. VetLife has an incredible network in helping veterinary professionals in challenging situations and can be an alternative to the person in need. With the suicide rate in veterinary at four times higher than general population, VetLife plays important role preventing that.