Matthew embarks on back-to-back marathons to help mental health charity
Ellesmere runner, Matthew Slawson will set out on Saturday for the biggest physical challenge in his life.
But he says his aim, to run two marathons, back-to-back in one day, is nothing compared to the emotional challenges too many people are facing.
The 30-year-old will be raising money for the mental health charity, Calm, the Campaign Against Living Miserably, dedicating the challenge to two young men who lost their lives to mental health issues.
He will set off from Ellesmere Business Park at 7.30am for the 52.4 mile run taking in local lanes, footpaths and the canal towpath and hope to finish his challenge on Saturday evening in the town centre.
Matthew a former public of Lakelands Secondary School is no stranger to the effects of poor mental health.
He said: “Losing my dad and my brother several years ago led me to suffer for years with mental health and depression – not being able to grieve and at times thinking there was no light at the end of the tunnel. This led to me losing so many friends because I would just make up excuses to not go out or face the world.”
It was after a friend took his own life that Matthew knew he had to do something. He said: “The percentage of suicides that are male in the UK is at an all time high and it’s something I feel needs talking about and people being made more aware."
During lockdown last year he ran 10k a day for a month raising £434 and has gone on to enjoy running thoughout the year.
Anyone who would like to support Matthew can do so at justgiving.com/fundraising/kieranosbornememorialmarathons.
