Northampton army veteran with PTSD to march 10k every day until lockdown ends in bid to raise money for charity

A Northampton man is marching 10k a day whilst carrying 30kg on his back until lockdown ends to raise money for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and awareness for Changing Minds.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Gareth Humphrey was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a breakdown in February 2020, which comes after 17 combined years in both the Army and Fire and Rescue service.

Gareth found himself living alone in a caravan relying on food banks and charity handouts to survive.

SSAFA managed to get housing sorted for Gareth just before Christmas and now the veteran wants to give back to others in the army and inspire people to get moving in lockdown within their safe restrictions.

Gareth Humphrey said: “I actually hit rock bottom. If it wasn’t for the charities that I am raising money for, I can safely say I wouldn’t be here today.

“Like so many others, especially as we move through the pandemic, mental health ‘the invisible injury’ is often seen as a weakness or misunderstood."

Gareth has already smashed his initial target of £1,000 and has set a new one, with the current total now standing at £1,400, as of today (Tuesday, February 2).

When lockdown ends, Gareth will complete his final 10k while carrying 60kg to represent carrying someone who has died from PTSD. He is also carrying the added weight to represent his own life.

The veteran went on to list his lockdown activities which keep him positive during the Covid crisis.

He said: “I have been walking every day since the third lockdown and have not missed a day. As I have progressed through the challenge, I have realised how many different people I have impacted and encouraged to get outside. From speaking to people and reading their comments, I now feel a responsibility to help others keep positive throughout this lockdown."

To follow Gareth’s journey click here, or donate to his JustGiving page.