This February, I’m challenging myself to walk/run 180km over 28 days to raise money for S.T.E.P.S, a Draperstown-based charity that is incredibly close to my heart.

S.T.E.P.S was set up by the community to support those struggling with their mental health, raise awareness around suicide, and help break the stigma that still surrounds it.

They provide so much vital support through weekly activities such as yoga, Pilates, Walking for Wellness, and horticulture- often helping people take that first, incredibly difficult step out of the house and feel connected again. S.T.E.P.S also delivers workshops to schools, sports clubs, organisations, and businesses, and offers free counselling services to individuals and families who need support during some of the hardest times of their lives.

I’ve chosen to raise money for S.T.E.P.S because of the incredible difference they make within our community. They have an amazing team of 11 counsellors- including my mummy- who show up every day to support people when they need it most.

In 2025 alone, S.T.E.P.S delivered 2,773 support sessions and helped 1,121 people through counselling, reaching individuals aged from just 3 years old to 101, across 66 towns and villages. Behind every one of those numbers is a real person, a real story, and someone who needed care, understanding, and hope.

Mental health and suicide prevention matters for absolutely everyone, but my fundraising is especially focused on men’s mental health. In recent times, there has been far too much loss and heartbreak, particularly among men- especially those in my age group. Suicide has touched the lives of myself, my friends, and my family in different ways, and it’s clear that too many men still struggle in silence and don’t seek the support they need.

Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, and the Northern Trust area has the highest suicide rate outside of Belfast. Too many families have experienced devastating loss, and no one should have to go through that pain alone.

So over the next 28 days, I’ll be getting a lot of steps in, so I would love for absolutely anyone to join me for a walk/ run along the way! These dark winter days can be tough, but getting outside, moving, and connecting with others can truly make a difference.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for any support you can give. If you are suffering in any way, please know that there are services like S.T.E.P.S out there to help❤️