From Running to Walking: ‘For Men To Talk’ founder’s Journey with the London Marathon
On 9 May 2005, my world changed forever. My mum, Jen Newman, passed away after a valiant 19-month battle against ovarian cancer. Diagnosed in October 2003, she endured a hysterectomy and three different courses of chemotherapy before the disease spread to her stomach. Ovarian cancer, often called the ‘silent killer,’ had claimed another victim. The symptoms of this insidious disease are frequently absent or subtle in the early stages, making early diagnosis challenging and often coming too late for successful treatment.
My heart aches knowing my mum never got to meet my children, my amazing step-son, or see me marry my wife. But I wanted to honour her memory in a way that would make her proud. In April 2013, I ran the London Marathon for Ovacome, a support network for women with ovarian cancer, their families, friends, and healthcare professionals. It was an emotional and physical challenge, but crossing that finish line felt like a tribute to her courage and resilience.
Fast forward to 2022, and my journey with the London Marathon took on a new form. This time, it wasn’t just about me. It was about ‘For Men To Talk,’ the men’s peer support group I founded. In 2022, seven attendees of our group walked the TCS London Marathon MyWay, covering the 26.2 miles at our own pace. It was a powerful experience, raising funds to support our mission of providing a safe space for men to talk about their struggles and mental health. Seeing these men come together, sharing their stories, and supporting each other was incredibly moving.
In 2023, we continued the tradition. Five attendees from ‘For Men To Talk’ took on the TCS London Marathon MyWay again. Each step we took was a testament to the strength and solidarity of our group. We walked together, raising awareness and funds to ensure that no man has to face his challenges alone.
This year, 2024, we took another step forward. Eight attendees from ‘For Men To Talk’ walked the TCS London Marathon MyWay, but this time, our cause expanded. This year we supported my ninth humanitarian mission in the impoverished suburbs of Nakuru, Kenya. The funds raised helped build, renovate, and provide essential support to hundreds of children in need. I headed there in May 2024, to contribute directly, playing, teaching, and making a difference in their lives.
Reflecting on this journey, from running in 2013 to walking in recent years, I see a powerful metaphor for life and grief. Running was about pushing through the pain, driven by the memory of my mum. Walking, on the other hand, has been about community, support, and the collective strength we find in each other. It’s about the steps we take together, supporting one another and making a difference in the world.
My mum’s battle with ovarian cancer taught me about the silent struggles many face. Through ‘For Men To Talk,’ we’re breaking the silence surrounding men’s mental health, one step at a time. And now, with our efforts extending to Kenya, we’re showing that the support and compassion we build locally can have a global impact.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, ‘For Men To Talk,’ and our broader humanitarian efforts. Whether running or walking, together, we’re making strides towards a better, more compassionate world.