Local man, Graham Waton, will be walking 300,000 steps this month to raise money for charity and to raise awareness about men’s health – mental health especially.
As part of Movember’s May challenge, Graham will be walking around Melksham and he is hoping to raise £500.
“Movember is a charity devoted to stopping men from dying too young,” explains Graham. “They do amazing work around mental health, suicide prevention, and both testicular and prostate cancer.
“Personally, my motivation for tackling the challenge is mostly to do with mental health. I was shocked to discover recently that globally, on average, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day.
“That’s 1,440 lives being lost every single day – over half a million each year.
“Movember funds projects across the world to help tackle the complex issues behind suicide.
“Of these, projects closest to my own heart include a project to improve the mental health of fathers – I’m a dad myself and struggled with depression after my son was born – and another to strengthen social connections in men who are at risk of isolation.
“This feels like a very personal challenge to me. I’ve struggled with my mental health at various points during my life and have at times had suicidal thoughts.
“I’ve been helped through those times by my family, friends and various support services. This challenge – and the money I’ll be raising – feels like a good way to give something back to the people who’ve helped me over the years.
“As a final point, it’s also a good chance to potentially lose some of the lockdown weight I’ve put on over the last year!”
To donate to Movember and support Graham, visit: www.facebook.com/donate/500532367620248/