Hayley Paterson

Why I’m running 20 miles march for march

I’m taking on a 20-mile run this March for one very personal reason: my brother.

My brother served in the army, and like so many veterans, the battle didn’t end when he came home. After leaving the forces, he struggled with his mental health — something that far too many veterans experience in silence. The transition back to civilian life can be overwhelming, and the support that’s needed often just isn’t there.

Veterans give so much of themselves in service, yet when they need help the most, many are left to navigate their struggles alone. Mental health support for veterans is still underfunded, overstretched, and in some cases inaccessible. That’s not good enough.

By running these 20 miles for March for March, I want to raise awareness and funds to help change that. This run is for my brother, and for every veteran who feels forgotten, unheard, or unsupported. It’s a small step on my part, but I hope it contributes to a bigger movement — one that ensures veterans get the care, understanding, and respect they truly deserve.

If this run helps start conversations, raise awareness, or support even one person, then every mile will be worth it.

Support my March in March

This year I will be taking on March in March to raise vital funds for life-changing mental health treatment for veterans.

Combat Stress is the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health. For over a century, they've helped former servicemen and women deal with issues like trauma, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Today, they provide support to veterans from every service and every conflict.

I’m taking on March in March to help take vital steps towards ensuring veterans can get the support they need.

Thank you so much for your support and together we march!