Hi everyone,

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. My closest friends and family may know that I have battled with depression and social anxiety. Though my depression is well controlled, the anxiety often rears it's ugly head.

It is the reason I have missed out on my friend's weddings and sharing their special day. It is the reason I can't fully lose myself in the moment at a rock concert for fear of "sticking out" in the crowd. It is the reason I didn't pursue a career in the performing arts, which I enjoyed in my teenage years.

When I hit rock bottom a few years ago, I reached out for help through my GP. From there, I was put through cognitive behavioural therapy, which didn't work for me (though it may well do for you, reader) so I have since been taking Sertraline.

Apart from some undesirable side effects in the beginning, Sertraline has been a huge help for me and I am now able to speak more openly about my struggles with mental health.

There is a stigma with men that sadness and anxiety are a sign of "weakness". The awful phrase "man up" is an example of this. Many people have noticed that I champion a brand called "Boys Get Sad Too", which often invites conversations - sometimes even with strangers.

So, on 14th June 2025 I will be climbing Snowdon to view the sunset at the summit before descending under a blanket of stars to raise money for Men's Minds Matter, a charity which aims to prevent suicide in men. I will be this with a group of strangers (did somebody say social anxiety!?)

I would be extremely grateful for any donation you are able to give, thank you!