I'm doing this to show my support for a close friend who has had some troubles recently. Hospitals don't let people bring flowers in anymore, so this is the next best thing…

Beginning on or around the 1st of August, I will be attempting to run 7 marathons in 7 days in the area surrounding Alpe d'Huez, France. This is rugged, high altitude terrain. In the summer it's baking hot. As it's not part of an organised event I'll be having to carry all my own water and food. I haven't yet chosen my routes for each day, though the last leg will finish on the 21 bends, the penultimate stage of the Tour de France, probably on the 7th of August. I'll keep you all posted with stories of how I'm getting on, descriptions of the stages and (not too graphic!) pictures of the holes in my feet, mangled toes and sunburn.

The thing that's struck me about mental illness, particularly depression, is that is can affect anyone at any time. It doesn't give warning and it doesn't always need a trigger. I can confidently say that everyone will at some point have a friend who is affected. Never let them feel isolated. Show them you care. That's the message I want to get across by attempting this run.

Mind performs some fantastic work in changing the public perception of mental illness, supporting those who need help and lobbying the government and healthcare providers to ensure that the best possible measures are put in place. The role of charities is becoming increasingly important as public resources become more and more stretched. Here's Stephen Fry explaining its importance far more eloquently than I ever could:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPxHTZRwXX8

So please show your support. I don't have a fundraising target, I don't have an event with entry fees. The gesture of taking the time to donate 1€, £1, even 50p counts, and it will all make a difference. The money goes directly to the charity, they have incurred no fundraising costs, and they can even claim your tax back against it. 

The blurb: Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.