Six years ago I lost my closest friend, Curtis Bowens, to suicide. He felt he couldn't talk to anyone, that no one would be able to take him out of his dark place, that he couldn't live on anymore. This was the worst period of my life. I was lost, felt empty and couldn't see myself living in a future that didn't have Curtis. We knew each other our whole lives, went to every school together, we were inseparable. Anyone who knew him would tell you he lit up the room. He was a friend to all and a big brother to his five siblings.

Mental health is such an important issue that affects so many people each year, it cannot be talked about enough. 2024 was extremely tough for me after losing my grandfather and being involved in a scarring motorcycle crash. I've been lost in my own thoughts and struggled to move forward. I've had times where I haven't wanted to be alive.

Over the next four weeks I will be running 100 miles, for my charity of choice, Mind, who specialise in helping those who are struggling with mental health.

No one should be buried at 19-years-old, and no one should be burying their 19-year-old brother, son or friend.

You will never be forgotten Curtis, I will never forget you, this is for you.