Hi, my name is Jon and I ran the Dunstable Downs Marathon on Sunday September 3rd. I ran this in honour and memory of Omar, one of my best friends who unfortunately passed away earlier this year. I am hoping to keep raising money for a charity called James Place, focused on men’s mental health in Liverpool and London, two places very dear to our Omar; both places he called home. 

Omar was a bright, intelligent young man who I had the pleasure of living with last year. He had a profound ability to capture a room with his wit and form memories that would last a lifetime with people. Omar was and still is loved by so many people. It was an honour to call him my best friend and share my university experience so closely.  

About James place:

James’ Place saves the lives of men in suicidal crisis. They are a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men in our centres in Liverpool and London.They stop men dying by suicide. Their professional therapists get quickly to the heart of a man’s suicidal crisis and help him solve it. They are unique because their treatment is proven to work, quick to access and delivered in a safe, friendly, non-clinical environment by trained, professional therapists.They have treated over 1,500 suicidal men since 2018, delivering over 7,500 therapy sessions.

I ran this to raise awareness for mens mental health which continues to be a taboo subject in society today, and also to raise money which will ultimately allow this fantastic charity to help more men in crisis. 

Thank you to everyone who has generously donated so far and helped spread awareness of this cause. I am hoping to raise £21,000 because Omar was just 21 years old when he tragically passed away.