Todd Wyeth, 35, from Southampton, went the extra mile (or 26.2 miles to be precise) for mental health when he took on this year’s London Marathon in support of Solent Mind.

The father of two took part in the annual event in April and raised an incredible £2,172 for our charity.

Raising awareness of mental health

Todd has been open about the huge impact that a gambling addiction had on his mental health and says this was the reason he wanted to take on the marathon challenge in aid of Solent Mind.

“I started gambling at quite a young age and it became an addiction that took over my life. It affected my relationships and had a huge impact on my mental health. There were points when it was so overwhelming that I didn’t know if I could carry on.

“Fortunately, I got help, and I am now in a much better place. I want to do all I can to raise awareness of mental health as well as the charities that are doing incredible things to offer support and advice to those who need it. It’s been fantastic to be able to raise money for Solent Mind and a huge thank you to everyone who’s sponsored me and donated to this fabulous cause.”

Support from family and friends on race day

Speaking about his fundraising marathon, Todd said there were times when the run was a real struggle, especially in the hot weather, but the atmosphere and the support of his family and friends, spurred him on.

He said: “The heat was intense that day, which made it quite difficult. The stretches of the route with few spectators were tough, and it got even harder halfway through when my phone died, leaving me without music to keep me going!

“Seeing my wife, kids, and other family members, cheering me on along the way, gave me a real boost though. Each time I saw someone I knew, it gave me that little push to keep going. Crossing that finish line was an amazing feeling – and a huge relief.”

A challenge for charity

This is the second marathon Todd has run, and he’s also taken part in several other challenges to raise money for charities across the region.

He added: “Although I might be done with marathons, I do like a challenge, so I may well be searching for something else to take part in in the not-too-distant future.”

The 2025 London Marathon took place on Sunday 27 April, setting a new world record for the number of finishers (56,640) in its 45th year. Todd completed his challenge in 6 hours and 27 minutes.

We're honoured that Todd chose to raise money for Solent Mind and a huge congratulations to him for crossing that finish line.

Has Todd’s story inspired you to take on a challenge for Solent Mind? Find out more here: Take on a challenge | Solent Mind.