James Leach

I’m taking on the Whole Hog to raise money for Suffolk Mind, a charity doing vital work to support people across Suffolk with their mental health.

This challenge is particularly personal to me. I lost one of my childhood friends, Conor, to suicide, and I’ve seen other friends struggle and fight their own battles. I’ve also had my own experiences with mental health, so I know how easy it is to keep things bottled up, to think you’ll just “get on with it” and it’ll pass.

But for so many people, it doesn’t just pass.

There’s a silent majority out there dealing with things behind closed doors, and that’s why charities like Suffolk Mind matter so much. They provide a space for people to talk, to be supported, and to realise they’re not alone, especially in the moments when they need it most.

I’m doing this in Conor’s name, and for anyone else who’s ever struggled in silence. If this can help even one person get the support they need, it’s worth it.