In 2026, I’ll be taking on two huge challenges for Mind - a 100km ultra marathon from London to Brighton on 23 May, followed by a London to Brighton cycle on 13 September.

I’m doing this because mental health isn’t abstract to me. I’ve had my own struggles. And so have many of the people I care about deeply.

As a teacher, I see every day how much people carry - quietly, bravely, sometimes invisibly. Behind the smiles, the effort, the achievements and the resilience, there can be anxiety, grief, pressure, exhaustion and self-doubt. We all face battles that aren’t always obvious.

Without our mental wellbeing, what do we really have? It shapes how we see ourselves, how we show up for others, how we cope, hope and keep going.

Mind provides essential support, advice and advocacy for people experiencing mental health problems. They offer understanding when someone feels lost, practical help when things feel overwhelming and a reminder that no one has to struggle alone. Their work saves and changes lives.

The miles between London and Brighton will be long. There will be moments of doubt, discomfort and digging deep. But that feels fitting: because protecting and prioritising mental health requires endurance too. It requires honesty. It requires compassion.

If by pushing my body further than ever before I can help even one person feel seen, supported or less alone, then every step and every pedal stroke will be worth it.

Because NO ONE should have to fight their hardest battles in silence.

We've got this, people :)