SECE Mind’s fundraiser takes on the London Marathon

London Southend Airport Aviation Firefighter, Mike Edwards practicing for the London Marathon.

Our amazing fundraiser, Mike Edwards, is about to run the London Marathon, raising vital funds for South East and Central Essex Mind.

Mike is an Aviation Firefighter at London Southend Airport and has been keeping very busy alongside his demanding day job, training to get ready to run 26.2 miles in the world’s biggest annual one-day fundraising event, the TCS London Marathon.

We are pleased and proud to say that all funds raised by Mike will go to SECE Mind, to help us support and empower those living with poor mental health in South East and Central Essex.

Speaking to us as the big day draws closer, Mike said:

“I have friends and family who have suffered with mental health issues previously and Mind has been there to help them. I want to do what I can to help give back.

“My training started in January. It’s been tough, especially getting the long runs in with two young children, but my wife has been brilliant and it’s been a real family effort. I’ve been doing buggy runs with my youngest, Junior Parkruns with my oldest, and have been running with my wife, too. Now I just can't wait for the day!

“This will be my sixth marathon and my second London experience. The first time I completed the London Marathon was such a great day. And this year it falls on my 39th birthday, so I’m hoping it will be a double celebration when I cross the finish line!”

Can you help Mike reach his fundraising goal?

Mike has set himself a target of £2,500. If you can, please help him reach that goal by sponsoring him here: https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/mikeedwards16

Despite the hours and hours of training, there are bound to be tough moments for Mike throughout the 26.2 mile course. In those moments, he’ll be digging deep and thinking about the incredible impact SECE Mind can make with the money he’s raised. So, lets help him reach that target before race day this Sunday!

All donations, big and small, make a difference. Thank you so much for your support.

Donate to South East and Central Essex Mind

Heroes need support too

The London Marathon is famous for its supportive crowds, and we know that Mike would appreciate your support on the day just as much as he appreciates your donations. If you’re in London and can make it to the route to cheer on Mike and all the incredible marathon runners this Sunday, please do! Even heroes like them need support – just like the rest of us.

If you’re in need of support you can request a free call back from our Somewhere To Turn service for an initial conversation about how we can help you. Alternatively, you can take a look at our self-referral form that will allow you to access our counselling services without a GP referral.