An incredible fundraising feat that will see Island Roads foreman Jack Faulds complete a marathon run every other day throughout January comes to an end tomorrow (Friday).
Jack will set off from Pan Stores at Royal Exchange on Friday afternoon to complete the 16th marathon run of the month – all to increase awareness of mental health issues and to raise funds for suicide prevention charity the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).
So far Jack’s fundraising has raised over £3,500.
Jack took up running following the suicides of several of his good friends. He has also taken a course to further his own understanding of mental health.
He is now looking forward to the completion of his latest endurance feat during which he has battled through fatigue, illness and some particularly severe weather.
Speaking about his efforts so far, Jack has said:
“It feels nice knowing it’s all coming to an end but at the same time there is a sense of accomplishment at completing the 16 marathons and raising a really good amount for CALM.
“The support of friends and family has been really important. Getting lots of people out running with me – some completing their first marathons – has been really good too. The support I’ve had has been phenomenal and I am so grateful.”
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The hardest run along the way has been the 11th because of illness and the toll of such an arduous schedule – all on top of his work duties.
Jack says:
“That one was tough from start to finish because I was feeling so ill, had no motivation and no energy.
“There has also been some really bad weather along the way – running for four-plus hours in the pouring rain, really strong winds has also been tough and recovery time has also been slow as I have been doing the day job too so it’s been difficult to relax.
“But then you remember why you are doing this – for suicide prevention and awareness. I’ve also had really good support from lots of different people, friends family and people I don’t even know coming out running with me – that’s been fantastic and a real help.
Jack has also received the support of RMA Sports Injury Clinic in Newport, JF Performance – Sports Massage Therapy, and Sara’s Solutions of Ryde.
So, how does Jack plan to celebrate when he finishes the last marathon on Friday night…?
“I reckon I will get a nice big chippy and relax with my girls for a few days before I start training again. I’ve got a 100km race in April and then a 24hr endurance race in June.”
Steve Ashman, service director at Island Roads, which will be providing some matched funding to boost Jack’s total, says:
“We are all incredibly proud of Jack for his commitment to completing this incredible challenge. He is such a powerful role model for people inside and outside of the business. Well done Jack.”
You can read more about Jack’s story and donate to CALM by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/page/jack-faulds-1729926348147.
Is he being paid by Island Roads to be an
Operative or a sportsman?
Just curious where my taxes are going.
Would so love to break your jaw,
Shame if your house burnt down