Aberdare man to run length of Wales
At the start of August, Gareth Jones from Aberdare will be attempting a 200 mile run from North to South Wales to raise money for charity PTSD UK; a cause close to his heart. Gareth said "I want to do my bit for mental health. If this run helps change one person's view of themselves and inspires them to get up and go then all the pain will be worth it."
Gareth recently ran the Celtic Ultra 32 mile race from Port Talbot to Aberdare finishing in second place. But he hasn't always had such a high level of fitness. Growing up in Aberdare, Gareth was overweight and struggling with his own mental health issues. "I thought for years I was in control but it consumed me. I can't begin to count how many times I looked in the mirror and felt bad about myself."
After joining the military Gareth discovered that doing physical activities gave him control over his mind as well as improving his body. Running has helped him turn his life around and now he's encouraging as many people as possible to get the help and support that they deserve. Running the length of Wales will be a massive test of his physical strength and mental ability. Gareth says "I know there will be times when I will want to cry and give up, but by running for PTSD UK I know I'm running to support others through their own struggles. I'm doing this for all the people who are suffering in silence. You are not alone, I will suffer with you."
Gareth's run will begin on August 7th in Holywell and hopefully finishing in Aberavon four days later. He'll be totally self sufficient, carrying everything he needs with him including a letter from his Uncle in Holywell which he'll be hand delivering to his Nan in Cwmaman along the way!
To read more about how you can support Gareth and donate to PTSD UK visit his Mental Health Wanderer social media page's and Just giving platform.
