From 20–26 April, Chris Fordham (OR 1994-2001) will undertake an extraordinary endurance challenge called The Long Run for Mental Health, running seven marathons in seven consecutive days and finishing with the London Marathon. Chris is taking on the challenge in support of the Samaritans and in memory of a close friend who sadly died last year.

The motivation behind the challenge is both personal and timely. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK, and many people find themselves navigating a stage of life where careers, family responsibilities and financial pressures all converge. Chris hopes that the challenge will help raise awareness of the importance of talking openly about mental health and seeking support when things feel overwhelming.

The Samaritans provide a vital service through their 24-hour confidential listening service for anyone struggling to cope. Every day of the year, volunteers answer calls, emails and messages, often at the moments when people most need someone to listen.

As part of the challenge, Chris will run from Oxford to Reading on Thursday 23 April, concluding the day’s marathon at Reading School. The following morning, Friday 24 April, he will speak to Year 9 students in Chapel about mental health and the importance of looking after their wellbeing. Afterwards, he will run a lap of the field with each of the school’s five Houses before students line the drive to cheer him on as he sets off on the next leg of his journey.

Chris warmly invites fellow ORs to join him for part of the run, particularly on the morning of Friday 24 April or as he departs Reading for the next stage.

If you would like to support the challenge with a donation, you can do so by clicking here: Christopher Fordham for Samaritans