Hello, my name is Tom York, I'm 21 years old, and I'm about to undertake probably the most challenging event of my life.
Over the years, I've faced the shadows of mental health struggles, starting at the tender age of 17. It's been a relentless battle, a storm that I've weathered day in and day out. Throughout, mental persistence is what has kept me going. This challenge is going to test my mental and physical persistence to the absolute max.
And so, in June 2024, I'm undertaking a challenge that mirrors the journey of mental persistence - an Ironman. But what is an Ironman?
An Ironman is not just a race; it's a crucible of endurance, a fusion of physical and mental fortitude. It consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon of 26.2 miles – all in one day. It's not a sprint; it's a grueling, unyielding test of strength and stamina.
Imagine swimming 152 lengths of a pool, or biking the distance of London to Brighton, and back, oh and then finishing it off by running a marathon – all consecutively. It's a challenge that demands everything you have, physically and mentally. Why am I doing this?
I'm doing this not just as a personal milestone, but as a testament to the power of mental persistence. It's my way of honoring a dear friend I lost to suicide, my housemate from university. It's a tribute to his memory and a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we have the strength to persevere.
But it's not just about me. I'm raising funds for the charity FCN, which support farmers struggling with mental health. The challenges faced by farmers in the UK are immense, with staggering statistics reflecting the mental health crisis within the agricultural community.
92% of farmers in the UK under the age of 40 rank having poor mental health. 40% of all UK farmers are depressed. Every week, 115 people will take their own life. 75% of those are men.
This Ironman is my canvas to paint a story of triumph over adversity, a narrative that screams, 'you can push through.' I invite you to join me on this journey, to support not just my endeavor but the cause it represents – mental health awareness in the farming community.
Because together, we can turn the tide on mental health struggles, one stroke, one pedal, and one step at a time.
So as we remember those that we have lost, it is important to reflect on the platform I have been given to spread this message. Thank you to Len’s Light, which was set up on loving memory of Len Eadon, for supporting me throughout this journey.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let's make mental health a priority. See you at the finish line."