At Kids Inspire, we’re always inspired by the incredible people who support us and children’s mental health. Today, we’re highlighting Joe— a builder, father, and mental health advocate. Joe is preparing for the Bakers Brentwood Half Marathon, motivated by his own journey of overcoming personal struggles and healing through therapy and running. His experience led him to raise money for Kids Inspire, supporting our vital work with children and families impacted by trauma.

In this Q&A, Joe shares his story, his mental health journey, and why he’s passionate about supporting Kids Inspire. 

Tell us a bit about yourself

“I’m 40 years old, live in Essex, I’m married and a dad. I have a teenage stepson and two other young sons of my own. For work, I’m a builder, mainly doing luxury garden rooms and extensions. I’m also a season ticket holder at West Ham, enjoy films and listening to my favourite band The Dead South - who I have seen live three times when they are over here performing in London!”

Why did you choose to run for Kids Inspire and children’s mental health?

“Mental health is so important to me. I have struggled with anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but I’ve made it through to the other side. Problems can start at any age, and it’s important to get support when it's needed. I researched and found Kids Inspire, and I really liked what they’re doing to support children’s mental health. That’s why I chose Kids Inspire and why I’m raising money for them.”

Can you share a bit about your own mental health journey?

“Thirteen years ago, a good friend of mine took his own life. Losing him really affected me. I struggled with depression and, instead of telling anyone, I kept it to myself, suffering in silence for five years. Eventually, it became too much, and I opened up to my close friends and family. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

With their help, I sought some support and started to feel better - but the struggle didn’t really go away. I was overthinking, not sleeping, and breaking down in front of my wife and kids, but I still didn’t do anything more about it.

By mid-2023, I had developed a gambling addiction, which I hid from everyone. I had hit rock bottom, and it began to affect my relationship with my wife and kids. That’s when I started attending a GA (Gamblers Anonymous) group, and my wife helped me find a therapist.

I remember crying when I was diagnosed me with severe depression, anxiety, and PTSD. That moment was a turning point for me. I began EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy, which has been truly amazing. Along with the GA group, it has completely changed my life.

After that, I decided to start running.”

How has running helped you personally?

“I started running in late October last year. I used to think joggers were mad when I’d drive past them running on the pavement - until I gave it a go. And you know what? I get it now. It feels amazing! Now it’s part of my routine and I try to run every day to hit new distances and beat my times. Running clears my head, and sometimes I even find myself smiling while I’m out there.”

How have you found training for the half marathon so far, and what helps you?

“I start with a brisk walk for about half a mile before easing into a jog. So far, the furthest I’ve run is 5 miles in under an hour. Sometimes, I’ll walk again for a bit before jogging again, and when I feel like I can push further, I will aim for a 6-mile run in an hour. I’ve also found that listening to music really helps keep me motivated while running.

My goal is to complete the Brentwood Half Marathon in around two and a half hours, and if I finish earlier than that, I’ll be very happy. I’m nervous, but I’m determined to finish.” 

What would you say to encourage others to take on a challenge or fundraise for a charity?

“I would say, if there’s a charity that touches your heart and means a lot to you, why not set up a Just Giving page and raise money for them?

When I took up running, I found myself typing ‘Brentwood Half Marathon’ into Google, and the date for March came up. I thought, ‘that gives me plenty of time to train for it.’ I then searched for mental health charities, and that’s when I found Kids Inspire. I really liked what I read about them.”

What an inspiration Joe is!

We’re proud to have him running the Bakers Brentwood Half Marathon for Kids Inspire and children’s mental health. Joe’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in our toughest moments, there’s always hope. As Joe says, "That moment was a turning point for me."

If his story has inspired you, you can support Joe’s fundraising on his JustGiving page. Or, if his journey has motivated you to fundraise for Kids Inspire, we’d love for you to take on a challenge for Kids Inspire, or come up with your own unique way to raise money. There’s something for everyone, and our Fundraising Team is always here support you.