Hi everyone,

I have been fortunate enough to secure a place in the London Marathon on 21st April 2024. This will be my second marathon and as a keen runner, it is very exciting!

What makes it even more special is that I am delighted to be running for MIND, and in memory of my dad, Chris Gwatkin who passed away in 2013.

My dad was a good example of how mental illness can affect anyone at any stage of life. Following a successful career and being a fantastic father for many years, in the last few years of his life he suffered with depression and alcoholism. Following the tenth anniversary of his unexpected death, I am incredibly proud to be running for him for a cause close to my heart.

It was only in 2021 when I sought out therapy to help with stress, anxiety and feelings of self-doubt I had experienced on and off since my dad’s death, linked to growing up with an alcoholic family member. It was the best decision I ever made.

In a profession such as mine (criminal law) where the lines between work and home life are blurred, where vicarious trauma is an everyday aspect of the job, and where unrealistic and unhealthy expectations of perfectionism thrive - the opportunity to reflect, gain much needed perspective and generally talk about my feelings has made me happier and healthier.

MIND breaks the stigma around mental health and mental illness. Quite why there is still a stigma around mental health bemuses me; suicide is the biggest killer of young men under 35, one in four of us will have suffered a mental health problem in the last year.

The charity campaigns for better mental health provision across the country, educates the population regarding mental illness and empowers people with mental health difficulties to understand their problems and obtain help.

For those reasons, any donations big or small are most welcome in supporting this wonderful charity which ultimately helps all of us, whether now or in the future. Many thanks for your time.

James

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