Feb 14 2025 42 mins
What happens when a professional golfer trades in his clubs for a pair of running shoes? Meet Shawn Leek, the Mental Health Runner, who found his freedom on the open road. Sean's story is one of transformation, fuelled by personal battles with self-esteem and a relentless quest for fulfilment. Through candid storytelling, Shawn shares how running became his sanctuary, leading to an astonishing 27 marathons, including the extraordinary feat of 7 marathons in 7 days for charity. His journey highlights the redemptive power of physical activity and the unwavering support from those we hold dear.
Grief and mental health are daunting subjects, particularly for men, but Shawn bravely tackles these issues head-on. Reflecting on his experiences between 2016 and 2017, Shawn reveals how embracing vulnerability can be a lifeline out of despair. Through his personal accounts of loss and recovery, he sheds light on the stereotypes surrounding mental health and the vital role of community and connection in healing. This episode encourages listeners to break the silence, seek support, and find solace in shared stories and open conversations.
The episode wraps with a celebration of community and the profound impact of empathy. Shawn's transition from engineering to fostering mental health support groups, spurred by job loss during the pandemic, illustrates the power of small, manageable life changes. Through the Mental Health Runner page, Shawn has built a thriving community dedicated to shared experiences and mutual support. Tune in to discover how storytelling and altruism can lead to personal growth, fulfilment, and the creation of communities where everyone feels empowered to share their journey.
For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1