26.2 miles. 42.19 kilometres.

On the 12th of April 2026, I’ll be running the Brighton Marathon in support of Mind, to help break the stigma and promote the conversation around men’s mental health.

This cause hits close to home. I’ve faced my own battles — with depression, anxiety, issues with self-confidence and understanding my self-worth.

I thought speaking up was weakness. I didn’t want to be a burden to others. However, I’ve learned showing vulnerability is a strength and that reaching out for help is powerful.

The truth is, too many men are suffering in silence.

•Around 1 in 8 men in England live with a common mental health disorder like depression or anxiety.

•Three-quarters of all suicides in the UK are by men.

•Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50.

• Surveys suggest 40% of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health, and for many men it would take thoughts of self-harm or suicide to compel them to seek help.

•And despite this, only 36% of people accessing NHS talking therapies are men.

These aren’t just numbers. They’re sons, brothers, fathers, and friends.

For me, sport and exercise have been my anchor. A way to rebuild confidence, process emotions, and find purpose again. Therapy gave me the tools to cope and the courage to move forward.

Brigton will be my ‘Everest’.

For years, I told myself I wasn’t built for running — that my body couldn’t handle it. But this journey isn’t about time or pace. It’s about showing up, doing something I once thought I couldn’t, and proving that we can overcome adversity when we lean on others and keep moving forward.

I hope this run sparks conversations — in gyms, in workplaces, in homes — and reminds people that it’s ok not to be ok.

If you can, please donate to support Mind and help fight the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

This is for the ones who are struggling. The ones who win the silent battle every day, that the rest of us know nothing about. Keep showing up, we see you.

#Twentysixpointwo