In August 2023 I was at such a low point I tried to take my own life. This was despite having a loving and supportive wife, family and friends around me, they all knew I suffered from depression and have helped me in the past. They understood when I was experiencing low moments but no one could see that I was at rock bottom as I hid that all behind a mask. On the outside I was bubbly, happy to go out and have a good time, on the inside it was a different story.

I have tried to raise awareness regarding mental health in my role as a volunteer at Crewe Park to let others know they are not alone and some times it might be easier to talk to someone outside of their immediate circle.

If I can help one person or family avoid going through what I put my family and friends through then I would have met my target.

My challenge this time is, on the winter solstice; also known as the darkest day which is how I see my depression; I will run 2 miles / 3.2 km every hour for 24 hours. The reason I have chosen this distance and time is that I went missing for 48 hours which was the longest time for those around me.

TO BE CLEAR I’m not asking people to run the whole distance with me but it would be amazing if people would sign up to start on an hour of their choosing, and join me virtually whether this be by walking, running, skipping, cycling, swimming, hopping, skiing dance, dog walking or any sort of activity of your choice with me to show that we can support each other regardless of what time it is or where in the world we are.

The cost of living impacts us all and I know there are plenty of amazing charities that are struggling, also it is coming up to Christmas which is never a cheap time of year. If you can afford to sponsor me and join in then I would ask for a £5 donation. If you can’t afford to sponsor me then I completely understand and respect this. I would still love it if you can join in and ask that everyone shares this with all their friends and family to spread the word. It would be amazing to get as many people involved as possible and spread the word that help is out there.

Below is a bit of information about CALM.

We’re Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and we’re a suicide prevention charity. We’ve got loads of 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.

£12.20 is enough to fund one potentially life-saving call.