I started running in May 2021 doing ‘100 Miles in May’ for Mind mental health charity. The first race I ever did was at the end of October 2021, which was the Manchester Marathon.

In the last 18 months, I have raced 4 more marathons, a half marathon and two 50 mile ultra marathons.

The Dragon's Back Race is the Worlds Toughest Mountain Race. From Conway Castle to Cardiff Castle, in 6 days, 380km. Simply put I'll be running a marathon and a half each day, up and down the Welsh Mountains. If we talk like for like, I'll have taken on climbing Everest twice in one week.

Running did save my life, I was in a very very dark place and saw no way out...

I'm nothing special, I just found the fight within me and set myself a challenge and then another and another...you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it.

Talking was key to my recovery, counselling, finding a hobby, a feel good factor. Some days the struggle is still there. But I’ve learned the tools to deal with adversity and my strength and knowledge gained over the last few years, allows me to work through the down days. 

I know #ITSOKAYTOTALK and I’m really happy, living life to the fullest and becoming the best version of me.

I want to help break down the stigma of Mens Mental Health. #ITSOKAYTOTALK. I am doing this by raising money and awareness for my chosen charity ANDYSMANCLUB.

On average one man every two hours takes his life in the UK. It’s often said; a factor is that men don’t talk. That’s why ANDYSMANCLUB was
born.

Established in 2016 by Elaine, Andy’s Mum, and Luke, Andy’s
Brother-in-Law, the aim of the club is to provide men with a safe space where they feel comfortable to talk and open up about their experiences in a room free of judgment.

ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom
and online. They are working to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #ITSOKAYTOTALK

ANDYSMANCLUB has over 100 free support groups nationwide,
running every Monday from 7PM except bank holidays. In these groups, men can open up about the storms affecting their lives in a safe, judgement-free and non-clinical environment. The clubs are designed to be free of pressure, there is no obligation for men to speak, they can simply listen if they wish. With publicity and working with the charity, I'm hoping to set up a club in Macclesfield.

With over 1800 men using the sessions every week, and an army of 500 volunteers on board, the movement is continuing to grow
week-by-week. ANDYSMANCLUB firmly believe in the power of talking and that #ITSOKAYTOTALK.

Anything you can donate would be welcome in raising money
and awareness to help break down the stigma of Mens Mental Health. #ITSOKAYTOTALK

James x