If I can walk on fire, you can too - Ayo's story

"I decided to sign up for CNWL NHS Health Charity’s firewalk because it felt like an incredible way to challenge myself. For me, it’s not just about walking across fire - it’s about pushing through fear, testing both mind and body, and proving to myself that I can overcome something that seems impossible. 

Mental health is something I feel very strongly about. When I was 14, I lost my mum to cancer. Just five years later, I lost my brother to a cardiac arrest. Going through those bereavements at such a young age tested me in ways I never imagined. I had to draw heavily on my own resilience, not just for myself but also to support my family. Those experiences taught me how vital it is to talk about mental health and to recognise the strength it takes to look after it. 

I’ve never done anything like a firewalk before, which is exactly why this challenge feels so meaningful. I know I’ll be nervous, but I’m excited for the moment I step off the coals and can say, I actually did it. That sense of achievement is something I know I’ll carry with me long after the event. 

For me, this is also about raising awareness. Too often, especially as men, we’re told to ‘man up’ or hide how we’re feeling. I think that’s harmful. Emotions are natural, and talking about them is necessary. When we share what we’re going through, we realise we’re not alone - and that can make all the difference. 

By taking on the firewalk, I want people to see that I stand in support of mental health. And if I can walk across fire, maybe it will inspire someone else to face their own challenges too. And who knows - maybe people will think I’ve got feet of steel while I’m at it!"

To find out more about our firewalk, visit our Firewalk page.