Craig Brown, marathon man – raising awareness for mental health

ARTICLE TAKEN FROM AUTOTALK MAGAZINE - http://autotalk.co.nz/news/ny-marathon-run-family-thrive 

AutoPlay founder Craig Brown is stepping out of his comfort zone to take on the New York Marathon – all for a good cause.

Brown, whose company provides dealers with digital sales tools, wants to support the family of his friend Mark, who died last year, after a long battle with mental health problems.

Brown’s goal is two-fold – to raise about $25,000 that will help provide Mark’s daughter with an assistance dog, alongside boosting awareness about suicide prevention.

“My mate Mark was an absolute champion,” Brown says.
“He had been suffering from mental health issues, but we all thought he was in a good space.”

Brown says he made the decision to run the marathon at Mark’s funeral, along with fellow friend Isaac Piper.
“I have never been a marathon runner and never seen myself as one.
“But we thought what could we do to support Mark’s family
“We thought ‘stuff it, we’ll run the New York marathon.’
“Running the marathon means we can make it an annual event.”

Training for the event has been tough on Brown’s knees after years of martial arts participation, with 24km the longest distance he’s managed so far.
“But all the pain will be worth it if we can raise enough money to get the assistance dog for Mark’s daughter,” he says.

Brown and Piper are also covering their own entry costs and flights.
“Every cent we raise will go to the family.”

If people are struggling with their mental health, Brown says they shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help.
“Once it gets hold of you, it can be pretty relentless.“
“There’s lots of support networks out there for people. It’s quite a big step to go to a support group.
“Or if you don’t want to go to a support group, talk to your mates.”

WATCH A SHORT VIDEO ABOUT CRAIGS TRAINING
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d76D-3yu90&feature=youtu.be
 
TO DONATE TO THE CAUSE VISIT THE GIVE A LITTLE PAGE 
https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/marathon-for-marks-family-and-mental-health