Jon's Story

What are some struggles you've faced with your mental health?

I lost my mam to cancer when I was just 10 years old. This is always something I’ve struggled to deal with and I feel that it has affected me emotionally my whole life. Even now, 35 years after her death, I still suffer from spells of depression.

What do you do to keep you mental health in-check?

Until recently I’ve always bottled up my emotions, keeping things to myself and not letting others know how upset I am but since meeting my wife 7 years ago, I finally feel like I can talk to someone about my feelings as she has dealt with her own struggles and came out stronger on the other side.

What makes you feel most fulfilled?

I started running 13 years ago, taking part in races of all distances. I loved the challenge of pushing my limits and trying to get faster. Over the past few years, I’ve really struggled with injuries and haven’t been able to achieve what I’ve wanted. During this time, I’ve rediscovered my love of the Lake District through hiking. I still like to push myself by fitting as much distance and as many summits as I can into one day.

What is something you're looking forward to doing?

I’ve recently spent 3 weeks in hospital, suffering from Atrial fibrillation and Bradycardia. I had to get an operation on my heart to correct the irregular rhythm. I’m really hoping that this won’t prevent me from doing the the things I love. I still have some challenges that I’d like to complete.

I’d really love to hike/run the 96 mile West Highland Way over the course of a week. I think this works out at about 15 miles per day.

There a numerous Ultra races that I’d like to complete in the Lake District and I'd like to complete the Lake District Wainwrights. I’m currently over halfway on 134 out of 214.

What advice would you give to someone struggling with their mental health?

Get outdoors. Run, walk, swim, cycle. Set yourself goals, whether they are solo or with family and friends. You might just be able to achieve something amazing that you never thought possible.

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Thank you to Jon for this article! Follow along with his adventures and get some ideas for your next adventure on instagram @frenchy_hikes_the_lakes.