Hey everyone,

Thank you for taking the time to look at this page.

12 years ago, I left the Royal Marines. I loved my time in the Corps, but after serving on Herrick 12 with 40 Commando, I decided to take a different direction. Like many people leaving the military, I found the transition to civilian life challenging. Moving away from the structure, routine, and identity of military life is not always straightforward, and it can take time to adjust.

One of the difficulties I experienced was a loss of pride and purpose. Making my day to day very tricky and on occasions putting me into some very dark places.

Many former Marines face similar challenges when they leave the Corps. Rebuilding a career, finding new direction, and adjusting to civilian life can be demanding, and not everyone finds that transition easy.

I am taking part in the Paris Marathon and the Great North Run to raise money for the Royal Marines Charity (RMA). I will be travelling with my family to support me for both events which means a great deal to me personally. This challenge gives me the opportunity to give something back to a cause that played a significant role in shaping who I am today.

The RMA provides practical support to serving and former Royal Marines and their families, particularly those who struggle during or after their transition into civilian life. By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping to ensure that former Marines have access to the support they need when they need it.

This is will be my first marathon and rest assured I am training hard for this with the goal for Paris being sub 3hrs 30mins and for The Great North Run I will be targeting 1hr 35mins.

Thank you for all of your support,

Joe