Hi, my names Dominic Callear and I'm 32 and 2024 is my year for Kaizen. But what is Kaizen? Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning change for the better or continuous improvement. So this year I'll be running in Birmingham Winter Warmer Half Marathon in February and then onto the main event the Manchester Marathon on 14th April

I chose Mind UK because whilst I've not been directly effected by Mental Health, indirectly our community has lost a lot of good men over my lifetime to suicide.

Working in a male dominant industry I feel that Men's mental health is an important topic because as men we are taught from an early age to just "get on with it" and "man up". So whilst not only raising money for such a fantastic charity I also wanted to take this opportunity to open up the dialogue around mental health, fully taking on the mantra that a problem shared is a problem halved.

Whilst researching what charity to fundraise for I came across some pretty shocking statistics about Men's mental health in the UK.

Only 36% of all NHS referrals for psychological therapies are for men. Men are less likely to seek help for their mental health.

52% Would be concerned about taking time off work, whilst 46% would be embarrassed or ashamed to tell their employer. (Men's Health Forum)

Suicide Is the leading cause of death for men under the age of 50 in the UK. (Calm Zone)

75% - Of deaths by suicide are males, and they are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.

So whilst I would absolutely love for everyone to sponsor me, I also know that we are in a cost of living crisis. So at the very least, all that I ask is that if you can, please talk and half that problem.