Craig, a 31-year-old account manager from South Yorkshire, is challenging himself to complete 100 miles on his bike throughout September.
He aims to raise £400 for the Jackson Hope Foundation, an organisation that has supported his mental health this year.
Just two days into September, Craig has already raised over half of his fundraising target.
Beyond just hitting this target, Craig the challenge to shine a light on the support available to people across Doncaster.
“People struggle with mental health from all walks of life. Doing the miles will be a challenge, but nothing compared to what some people suffer with” said Craig.
“If I can do my bit to support the foundation and others around the communities, and break the stigma with mental health, that’s what I want to achieve.”
Cycling has become essential to Craig in looking after his own wellbeing.
He says getting out in the fresh air has been great for his mental health, which is why he is taking on this challenge specifically.
And the charity Craig has chosen to support is one that he knows personally.
Craig has been attending the Jackson Hope Foundation for just over a year.
He says they have have been instrumental in his mental health journey.
But that asking for help in the first place was the hardest step.
“Having the courage to accept I needed some help and to walk through the door was the hardest part,” he said.
“But it’s been an amazing support for me, and I’ve met some incredible people from all walks of life. It’s my routine now to go each week.”
The Jackson Hope Foundation provides support for people experiencing mental health difficulties and loneliness across the Doncaster community.
The foundation offers daily services to its members, including walking groups in Carcroft, Rossington and Thorne, men’s groups in Town, Askern, Woodlands and Stainforth, as well as Hope Circles and women’s groups.
Craig’s biggest goal with this challenge is reaching people who might not have known that support is available.
“I’d like to let them know about the Jackson Hope Foundation and that the support is there,” he said.
As he gets on his bike and starts clocking up those miles, Craig hopes his challenge can remind others that they’re not alone.
Best of luck, Craig!
