100KM Run, 12 Hours, 27th June, Men Suicide Prevention

# Running for the Person I Needed

June is an emotional month for me. It's Pride Month and Men's Mental Health Month—two causes deeply connected to my journey.

Growing up in a small town, coming to terms with my sexuality was one of the hardest experiences of my life. I struggled with anxiety, body dysmorphia, and periods where I felt completely alone. Before coming out, I wrote a letter to my father telling him about my sexuality. I still remember the fear of putting those words on paper.

Years later, I found an old message I had sent to a friend: "Why is coming out so complicated?"

That question stayed with me because I know many LGBTQ+ people are still asking it today.

Sport became my lifeline. Running, gymnastics, and fitness helped me find strength when my mental health was at its lowest. Movement gave me confidence, resilience, and hope.

This June, I am running 100km (50 miles) on a treadmill in a single day to raise funds for LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide prevention.

I'm not doing this for medals or recognition. I'm doing it for the person I needed when I was younger—and for every person who feels alone, unseen, or unsupported today.

If this challenge can help even one person find hope, support, or a reason to keep going, every step will be worth it.

Thank you for helping me create a world where everyone feels they belong.