‘For Men To Talk’ walking the TCS London Marathon MyWay. Would you like to join them?

As the iconic London Marathon gears up to reclaim its traditional April date on Sunday 21 April 2024, a unique group of participants is ready to hit the pavement. ‘For Men To Talk,’ a peer support group dedicated to mental health, is stepping up to the challenge for the third time, embarking on a 26.2-mile journey to not only improve physical fitness but also to nurture mental well-being. This inspiring initiative comes after a rigorous 12-week training plan that will commence on Sunday 29 January 2024.

The London Marathon, an event that unites thousands of runners from around the world, underwent significant changes during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic. The marathon, usually held in April, was rescheduled to October in both 2021 and 2022. Additionally, a virtual component was introduced, now known as the TCS London Marathon MyWay. This adaptation allowed participants to run the marathon at their own pace and in their own space, providing a unique and inclusive experience.

‘For Men To Talk’ was established four years ago as a safe haven for men grappling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. In a non-judgmental environment, these men come together to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and support one another. The group’s discussions encompass various aspects of a man’s life, including work, relationships, and anxiety, with no strict rules or regulations dictating the depth of sharing. The group offers a variety of meeting formats, including walking meetings, physical gatherings, virtual sessions, and even fishing meetings, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of its members.

This year’s marathon endeavor is not just about personal achievement; it’s also a philanthropic effort. The ‘For Men To Talk’ participants are actively fundraising to support the founder, Luke Newman’s ninth humanitarian trip to Nakuru, Kenya. The focus of this mission is the West End Academy School, where Newman aims to make a positive impact on the education and well-being of the children. His agenda includes tasks such as assisting with teaching, developing teaching styles, contributing to the feeding program, and constructing new classrooms.

To support Luke Newman and the ‘For Men To Talk’ community in their humanitarian mission, you can contribute to their fundraising efforts at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/newmanlucasrik24.

For those inspired to join the ‘For Men To Talk’ participants in the TCS London Marathon MyWay, an invitation is extended. Interested individuals can reach out to Luke Newman directly at 07709 446480 or luke@formentotalk.co.uk.

Participating in an event like the TCS London Marathon MyWay not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and a shared commitment to mental health. By taking on this challenge, ‘For Men To Talk’ is not only breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health but also actively contributing to positive change on a global scale. Lace up those running shoes or join the walkers; the journey is not just about covering miles but about empowering minds and bodies alike.