A Big Year Ahead
As I head into my final year as a student, I want to make it a memorable one — full of challenges, growth, and purpose. This year’s adventures include:
1. London to Brighton Cycle Ride as Michael Chapman Cubed (Bill, Ethan, and me) ✅
2. Berlin Marathon✅
3. Cardiff Half Marathon✅
4. Brecon Ultra Marathon ✅
5. Haslemere Ultra Marathon✅
6. Swansea Mo’ Ultra✅
All of this leads into Movember, a campaign that means the world to me — and this year, I’m taking part for three big reasons.
1. My own mental health journey
As many of you already know, I’ve faced my own personal battles with mental health. I’ve spoken about my experiences across different platforms — including a blog with Movember, a feature with Brookes Sport, and a piece in The Sun newspaper — to show that vulnerability is strength and recovery is possible.
- The Sun – My Story:
https://www.thesun.co.uk/health/30338793/i-tried-take-own-life-three-times-secret-movember/
- Movember – A Gay Journey of Self-Acceptance:
https://uk.movember.com/story/callum-s-story-a-gay-journey-of-self-acceptance?tag=in-the-barber-chair&fbclid=IwAR1WyNt59iJZivVUW6sFnm3ePvFYwyb-ulC2SJa7tvX5kx8EFUoTvIJho_k
Opening up about my own experiences wasn’t easy, but it’s one of the most important things I’ve ever done. Movember helped give me a platform to talk about my struggles and, more importantly, to help others realise that they’re not alone.
2. Challenging stereotypes around masculinity
Movember isn’t just about growing moustaches — it’s about changing the way we think about men’s health and identity.
Many of my straight friends have shared how they’ve often felt boxed in by what society expects men to be — strong, silent, emotionless. I believe it’s time to challenge that idea. When men feel confident enough to express who they really are, they become better friends, partners, and allies.
If straight men felt more able to open up, support others, and challenge harmful stereotypes without fear of judgement, they’d not only improve their own wellbeing — they’d also be stronger allies for women, LGBTQ+ people, and everyone else who faces discrimination.
3. Supporting men’s health — and saving lives
This year has also been a tough one for people close to me. A number of friends and family members have been affected by cancer: four have faced testicular cancer scares, and three close family friends have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Hearing their stories has really hit home. These are conversations men often avoid — and that needs to change.
We can all play a part by normalising these discussions and encouraging each other to take our health seriously. Simple steps, like checking your testicles regularly, can make a huge difference. If something doesn’t feel right, get it checked. Early detection saves lives.
Why Movember matters
Movember funds groundbreaking research, supports mental health initiatives, and helps men around the world live healthier, longer lives. It’s a cause that’s deeply personal to me — one that’s shaped who I am and continues to drive me forward.
If you’re able to, please support my Movember efforts this year. Every donation, conversation, and shared post helps move us closer to a world where men feel comfortable being open, seeking help, and supporting one another.
Together, we can change the face of men’s health.