Matthew Miller-Hall

Running for Rethink Mental Illness – In Memory of Simon, and for Everyone Struggling

Next year, we are taking on a huge challenge: running the Berlin Marathon, to raise money for Rethink Mental Illness, a charity that means a great deal to me.

On top of this we are taking on some other running challenges,

19th Oct We are running the Great South Run together

🏰 Nov 2025 we are off to Corfe Castle to take part the torchlit trail run “Dark Castle” around the grounds and area of Corfe.

Then I will be taking on separate challenges starting with

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿March 2026 Bath Half

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿April 2026 I have a place in the fabulous London Marathon where I hope to emulate Nicky’s feat from this year,

Then, I’m back to the South Downs taking on 80kms around Chichester in June, again!!

Before we both head off to….

🇩🇪Berlin in September 2026 for the big one

I’m running for many reasons, but two stand out.

First and foremost, I’m running in memory of our dear friend Simon, who was Matilda’s godfather. Simon was one of those people who could light up a room just by being in it. He had an incredible heart and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around him. Losing him was devastating — and a painful reminder of how fragile mental health can be, even in those who seem the strongest.

I’m also running because of my own mental health journey. Over the years, I’ve struggled with manic depression and anxiety, which I have been guilty of not talking about and opening up enough, sometimes feeling completely overwhelmed, other times fighting to stay afloat. Running became a form of therapy — a way to find focus, calm, and hope. Each step reminds me that healing isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.

That’s why supporting Rethink Mental Illness feels so important. They do life-changing work for people living with mental illness and their families — providing advice, support groups, campaigning for better services, and challenging the stigma that still surrounds mental health.

These runs are more than just races for me. They’re about connection, remembrance, and resilience. Every mile is a tribute to Simon, to everyone who’s lost someone they love, and to all of us who keep going through the ups and downs of life.

If you can, please consider donating to my fundraising page. Every contribution, big or small, will help Rethink continue their incredible work and bring hope to those who need it most.

Thank you for reading, for supporting, and for believing that change is possible — one step, one mile, one conversation at a time.