I have undertaken well over 100 “challenges” to raise mental health awareness since 2014 and when I first decided that my 2020 challenges would include attempting 50km on an indoor rowing machine, I had no plans to do any fundraising – however that has changed as a result of recent tragic events.

Phoenix Harry Luke Benson was born on 22 October 2019, a son for Luke and Sarah (a work colleague and good friend). Just over five weeks later, on 28 November, Phoenix passed away; a tragedy that is beyond my comprehension, and for which I simply don’t have the words.

Sarah happens to be one of the bravest and most inspiring people I know; she will be doing the 2020 London Marathon as well as participating in other long-distance runs to honour her son, and to raise money for the neonatal unit at South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust, who provided the whole family with so much care and support during Phoenix’s short life.

The chance to support Luke and Sarah and do something to in memory of Phoenix is really important to me. In fact, it is a privilege; and so, on 30th September, I will be rowing in support of the Benson’s #RunForPhoenix campaign.

I will be 56 two weeks after the event; and this will be the longest single piece of exercise I have ever attempted; and I promise I will do everything I can to succeed … because this is for Phoenix.