This January, I’ll be taking on my 3rd winter walking marathon, not just as a physical challenge, but as a personal statement to offer support. In today’s ever-changing and evolving world, pressure seems to come from every direction. Expectations, responsibilities, uncertainty, and comparison have become part of daily life. Some of this pressure is justified, some of it isn’t — but all of it has the potential to weigh heavily on us if left unspoken. Late last year my sister in-law lost her dear brother at the tender age of 40. The pain that followed was of course widespread but many men, young or old live through such pain daily.

When pressure builds without an outlet, it can quietly turn into distress with serious consequences. Whether someone is battling addiction, navigating mental health struggles rooted in grief, coping with financial loss, or dealing with political and economic instability that directly impacts their home, the strain can feel relentless. Too often, men are expected to carry these burdens silently, believing they must “get on with it” alone. Whilst this perhaps wasn't always the case, presently it is fast becoming a 21st Century epidemic.

There are philisophical, meditative approaches which i assign to but i also admire the work and approach of MenWalkTalk.

This is why I’m raising money for MenWalkTalk as I believe they offer a sincere and powerful starting point — a simple, accessible support mechanism where men can show up exactly as they are. Sometimes the struggle is big, sometimes it feels small, sometimes it’s hard to even name and sometimes it maybe nothing — but it all matters.

MenWalkTalk reminds us that being present with one another, walking side by side, and having space to talk or simply listen can be life-changing. Being present is key, and no one should have to walk alone.