42 kilometres in the Big Apple!

Hi everyone! On November 4th, I’m going to be running the New York City marathon. As an amateur runner, 42km is not gonna be a walk in the park. Since I’m gonna be putting my body through significant physical pain, I thought this would be a good opportunity to raise some $$ for an epic charity - the Mental Health Foundation.

Struggling with your mental health is tough and takes a while to get it right. It’s super heterogenous, so what works for one person may not work for the next. But, what makes it easier is having friends and family who support you, and also having easier access to professional support. This has been my first year in clinical medicine, and damn, there are so many more people out there struggling than I would have thought. I’m by no means an expert and this is just my opinion, but I really feel that we need to improve access to mental health services for all New Zealanders. The current government are rolling out a programme offering free counselling to 18-25 year olds which is great, but I think it is really important to keep pushing our politicians to keep working on mental health policies.

So this is why I’m fundraising for the Mental Health Foundation, because they are a big voice with the ability to influence mental health policies. I’d love for you to donate, no amount is too small. Your support would be epic as as I take on this challenge, and I’d also love for you to support this cause and help out other New Zealanders with awareness and access to mental health services, because not everyone has the same access to getting help. I’ve donated 2 weeks rent because I wanted to back myself metaphorically and literally before anyone else! Godspeed to anyone struggling or helping loved ones who are finding it tough, I hope you can find ways to function as best as you can and appreciate this amazing world that we have the pleasure of existing in.