Luke’s 2000-mile motorbike ride to thank Milton Keynes mental health services

"A few years ago, I hit my lowest point having struggled with my mental health for years and was admitted into CNWL’s mental health services.

The mental health professionals were there for me when I felt like I had nowhere else to turn. They gave me the tools I needed to start healing, and with their support, I began my journey to recovery. I've always managed to work and my life since has been filled with many highs and lows.

The CNWL mental health services have now become part of my life. I can call the crisis team if things get bad and they're great. I can go to therapy groups after work, and I've been having the NHS Talking Therapies. It's like there's always someone there to listen and lift me up when I'm down.

That’s why I supported CNWL NHS Health Charity - to give something back to the amazing teams who helped me. I've always been a keen motorcyclist, so I decided to do a sponsored motorcycle ride.  I cycled 2,000 miles from Milton Keynes to Land’s End and then to John O’Groats. I could have given up, but I didn’t." 

"The incredible team that saved my life kept me going throughout the challenge. I did it. And I did it for them, raising £2,900, which funded patient-focused projects in the Campbell Centre, where I was treated.

I could of given up, especially on the last day. It was hard being all alone in the cold, dark and wet - but I didn’t. And the reward for myself was overwhelming and worth it to give something back. 

This was almost a reflection of part of my life, at my low times, as I could of given up more times then once, but I didn’t.

I know first-hand the amazing work that CNWL Charity does for patients, staff and carers."