24th B'Day Celebration & 2023 Personal Challenge: Running my 1st Marathon (42.195km) Fundraiser

Help me make it meaningful

I am turning 24 in 2023 and want to do something different for my Birthday. I am almost doubling my age, and running it! Well switching the 24 to 42. It works out that is the Iconic Distance of 42.195km. Yup, I will be training and running a full marathon in an effort to raise funds for important research and awareness of Mental Health. 
This is a personal birthday and 2023 Challenge. Running a marathon has been on my bucket list for a while now, and I have yet to tick it off the list.
I have completed a few half marathons and other endurance events, but this will likely be my most physically and mentally demanding challenge yet.

So, I decided what better way to celebrate my 24th Birthday - and trading gifts for myself with funds for important and life changing mental health scientific research. 

I will be running the Sunshine Coast Marathon on the 13th of August 2023!

I have experienced mental illness and poor mental health in the past. I continue to live and work with my own mental Health issues - in particular depression and anxiety. This is another way that I can advocate for myself and others to continue having the conversation about mental health and wellbeing, and checking in with our mates, friends, family and community every-day. 
Thankfully the stigma of asking for help, or seeking therapy or support for mental health assistance is being reduced through the effort of governments, organisations, and many people; however we can always do more to promote the importance of prioritising good physical and mental Health and wellbeing. 

In 2023, this will be my personal challenge and way of participating in a challenge to make a meaningful and memorable moment for Mental Health and fundraising much needed for the black Dog Institute, so that together we can further help others.

Mental illness doesn’t discriminate – it affects 1 in 5 Australians every year with symptoms like depression and anxiety. The impact can be devastating, not only for those living with it, but for those around them.

That’s why I’m getting active and raising funds for the Black Dog Institute - to support crucial mental health research and support services that help Australians impacted by mental illness and suicide.

As I celebrate my 24th year on earth in 2023 and run my undertake running my 1st marathon I humbly invite you to journey with me.
You can do this by offering financial support and making a donation from $5, $20 every bit makes a difference.

You can also support me in your spirit of good will.
None of us can walk alone, and we all need a community to survive and thrive. 
I cannot do this without you - and together we can create a meaningful and impactful difference for mental health.

Please consider a donation and share this with your friends and family.
Thank you for your support. 

Kind Regards,

Mick Greathead