I don’t normally fundraise when taking on my big adventures and challenges. Being totally honest, I feel very awkward asking for sponsorship/ donations. I’m doing the challenge or event regardless… I do love to suffer!

In June this year, we lost a very special friend, Little Dave. I was so lucky to call Dave a friend and to share joyful adventures in the mountains running over many hewitts together. Dave’s massive heart meant he touched the lives of so many.

(Hewitts, Chewits and Gruffalos with Little Dave)

Little Dave died from suicide. I don’t want to lose another friend to suicide, so I want to raise money for CALM; campaigning against living miserably; a charity that focuses on suicide prevention, particularly in men.

Having been depressed and suicidal back in 2024, I am so aware of the importance of accessing support, and being able to talk; being listened to and having feelings validated. I was lucky to have an excellent GP and a close circle of friends who wrapped around me. I know it is possible to get through the darkest times and come out the other side. There is hope, but sometimes it is impossible to see that.

(Blaenau 480, with a tail wind)

In August I will be attempting to ride GB Duro; this is a bike ride/ race from Land’s End to John O’Groats, 2000km long. It is off road, with some really rough terrain and lots of hills. It is unsupported, and solo; no support points, no drop bags, no external help. Just what you can buy along the way. Whilst there will be 20-30 riders starting off from Land’s End, I will likely be by myself for the whole journey as the field quickly spreads out.

I have no idea how long it will take me; I hope 12 days. The maximum time I have is 15 days before I have to turn around and get back to work. I pray my body and bike will hold up and get me to John O’Groats! I hope I’ll still be smiling at the end!

I’ll be taking a pink tutu all the way up the UK (although I’m only planning to wear it to finish in… tutus are a little awkward on the bike).

As I am riding 2000km, I would love to raise £2000 for CALM.

#doitfordave

Suicide is preventable.

If you need to talk, you can ring the Samaritans any time on 116 123.

You can call CALM on 0800585858; or message them via WhatsApp or live chat https://www.thecalmzone.net/feeling-suicidal

If you have a friend who is struggling and you are unsure what to say, how to talk, CALM has an excellent conversation coach available here https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support/conversation-coach

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 tfund one potentially life-saving call.