84 men die from suicide every week in the UK - it's the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45. July will mark 6 years since we lost my childhood friend, Daniel, to suicide. The overwhelming sadness of a young life lost too soon, is something that will always stick with me.

At school and university, young men in my sports teams have come to me with the mental struggles they're facing.

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), is a suicide prevention charity, providing tools and resources to help people find the support they need, including a life-saving helpline for people who can’t see a way forward, have lost someone to suicide, or are worried about their friends or loved ones. Several of their campaigns are specifically aimed at men, focussing on the important of talking to others about your problems, and breaking down the stigma surrounding this.

On July 19th 2025, I'll be running a 52km ultra marathon to raise money for CALM. Along the trails, I'll gain over 1200m of elevation. This will be by far the most physically challenging event I've ever done, and may ever do. My target of £1360 raises £10 for every kilometre I'll run, and £10 for every man's life lost to suicide weekly in the UK. I'd like to use this occasion to support CALM, by promoting the following in relation to mental health:

1. The importance of physical activity in relation to mental health:

Physical and mental health have been shown to be linked, with exercise having a positive effect. Clearly, exercise isn't the one and only cure to mental health challenges, especially not in severe cases. However, exercise can boost your mood, and help you feel more positive. For me, exercise is a hugely important tool in maintaining my mental health. By fundraising, and documenting my journey towards the ultra marathon, I hope to encourage others to exercise and see the benefits.

2. The importance of a supportive community, especially for men:

Having people to talk to is vital, whether it be friends or family. Men often struggle opening up to one another, which is likely a factor behind the higher suicide rates in men. Exercise is a great facilitator for forging friendships and communities. I'll be running the event with a bunch of mates, and training with many different people along the way, to show the social and supportive value of exercise.