On Saturday 18th May 2024, I will be taking part in the Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge, consisting of a 100km hike across the Dorset Coast. I will start at 0700 hours with a targeted completion time of 30 hours (continuous), finishing the following day on Sunday 19th May.

In 2005, I lost a parent due to mental health being a contributing factor. Both myself and society did not have the same understanding as to the effects this disease has on people, however the work these fantastic charities do by creating awareness and support has made mental health far more accepting to society. Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience mental health challenges. In 2019, 31% of adults reported a mental illness, with this number increasing a further 14% in 2023 to 45%.

Therefore, I am completing this challenge to recognise and personally support the awareness within mental health, in hope I can raise money to support the Dorset Mind organisation, where they can continue the fantastic work they do for people who need the support.

Dorset Mind is 1 of 100 charities across the UK under the nationally recognised 'Mind Organisation', who support their local community. They connect and change minds, bringing people together to make genuine change. Delivering life-changing services, including active monitoring and triage in Doctor’s surgeries, counselling, wellbeing groups, and mentoring.

The mental and physical demand I will experience during this challenge, is nothing compared to those that have to manage this illness daily throughout their life! I believe people never get over mental health. You check in and you check out, but you never depart from it! However, with techniques, the right mindset and support, people find there own unique ways of dealing with this condition.

Any support in helping raise money towards this fantastic cause, would be very much appreciated and I thank you in advance for your donations!

www.dorsetmind.uk.

www.mind.org.uk.