Jonathan Staples

My Journey to Recovery and Why I’m Participating in This Charity Event

Hello everyone,

I want to share a personal journey with you and explain why this charity event means so much to me. Around 18 months ago, my battle with PTSD became unbearable. For 16 years, I had lived with it—suffering from nightmares and repeatedly reliving a traumatic event. It reached a point where I felt completely broken, ready to give up.

 

The fear of my own thoughts was overwhelming, and I knew I had to ask for help. This was not an easy decision; it came with immense feelings of shame, failure, and self-disgust. A voice in my head, which I’ve come to call “The Critic,” thanks ‘Mike!’ amplified these feelings. But reaching out for help was the first step in my recovery.

 

I spoke to my doctor and started reflecting on my triggers. It was late October, and the constant fireworks were taking a toll on me. Each bang sent me into a panic—heart racing, dropping to the ground instinctively. These sounds reminded me of my time in active service, though my traumatic experience wasn’t from combat but a decision I made and its consequences whilst on operations in Afghanistan.

 

This realisation pushed me to seek professional help. I was referred to NHS Veterans Wales and began my journey toward healing. Its not easy; I took time off work, which brought its own guilt, but it was necessary.

 

Now, as I train for this charity event, I’m rediscovering my resilience. My legs ache, doubts creep in, but I’m determined. My therapist once asked me, “Who are you, Jon?” It’s a question I’m still answering, but each step brings me closer to understanding myself.

 

This event isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s a symbol of my recovery and resilience. I hope my story inspires others to seek help and find their own strength. And I leave you with a challenge: ask yourself, “Who are you really?”

 

Thank you for supporting me and this cause. Combat stress can be your first step to recovery. Give them a call go on you can do it!

 

Jon Staples

Training in full swing after a Christmas break

 2 days in and now with sore Calf's but a clear head, 35km's covered 3 mountains climbed through Ice and snow and a gentle run to kick start the week. It's going to be a challenge. You are probably thinking "he must be fit". I can assure you I am not, at least not anymore.  Mental health issues have taken its toll on me. I am overweight at 96kgs today and have a challenge ahead of me. But since having support from my therapist I have been able to lose since September 2024 28kgs. Losing weight is just one way that will drive my mental health in the positive direction I need towards being the person I used to be, before the critic in my brain took over me. I am in control and I will succeed.

Support me Running through February into my March in March

This year I will be taking on Run Walk Crawl 70km Ultra marathon Brecon to Cardiff in February and as a warm down I will be completing the March in March to raise vital funds for life-changing mental health treatment for veterans.

As a Veteran who suffers with PTSD and currently exploring trauma therapy with an incredible therapist. I personally know the importance of getting help, speaking out, and finding the right support to get veterans on the front foot to enable a better quality of life. I have been in the hands of Veterans NHS Wales for the past 12 months and can say that although it was difficult to do, I am proud to of asked for help as its changed my life around. 

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!