Student takes strides to improve mental health

Morgan Glazier, 18, who has been battling OCD for a number of years, is aiming to run an epic 465 miles over 30 days during June.

Each day he is adding an extra mile to the distance, to correspond with the date. So, on June 1 he ran one mile, on June 2 he ran two, and he will continue in this way up to June 30, when he will run 30 miles.

“Lockdown has been a bit tough and I haven’t been feeling great,” said Morgan, a student at Rossett School who had been due to sit A Level exams this summer in Maths, Further Maths, Economics and Physics.

“I’ve always enjoyed long-distance running and I often use it to get away from everything. It is a way for me to disconnect myself from negative thoughts and improve my mental wellbeing. It helps me feel happier within myself.”

As well as giving him something to aim for on a personal level, Morgan is hoping the 30 day challenge will help highlight the positive effects that running can have on mental health.

At the same time, he will be raising money and awareness for the mental health charity MIND because it means a lot to him and his family.

He added: “I am doing it in memory of my uncle, who died as a result of his mental health problems, and for everyone who suffers or has suffered with a mental illness. My mum ran the London Marathon for MIND a few years ago so it’s a charity that’s close to us.”

Morgan is a former member of Harrogate Harriers Junior Running Club and last year completed the Great North Run in one hour and 32 minutes. But he admits being a bit daunted by the 30 day challenge, particularly as he’ll run the equivalent of a marathon or longer on each of the final five days.

“I’m trying not to think that far ahead and usually plan my route the night before,” he says.

“I’ll be doing laps on the Stray every Saturday starting at 10am so people can come down and support or run a couple of laps with me at a social distance if they want.”

Follow Morgan and donate at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/morgan-glazier.

Morgan smashed his initial target of £100 in the first day, so has now increased it to £2,500.

He says: “I massively appreciate all the support and donations I’ve had so far. MIND is a fantastic charity that will offer support, information and advice to those who need it most.

“As a sufferer myself, I understand how hard it is to tell people about your struggles. I suffered in silence for over two years.

“I was embarrassed to tell people at first but when I did, it was the best decision of my life.

“Particularly during lockdown, people may be suffering in silence so it’s more important than ever to support organisations that can help.”