Jonny Gibson is looking to give back to those suffering from mental health issues by pacing himself for 50.5 miles from Starfish Point in North Side to Papagallo in West Bay this Sunday, 17 Dec.
Gibson, 29, who understands the battle of mental health after going through his own challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, told the Compass that he is hoping to raise funds for the Alex Panton Foundation – a local charity that is near and dear to his heart.
“I didn’t know Alex personally… but I know what it’s like to go through it,” Gibson said. “Not everyone is the same but trying to help, and supporting, especially, a local charity is really important to me.”
Gibson played for the national Cayman Islands rugby team and in a semi-pro league in Scotland. He noted that he has lost around 50 pounds since his competitive days in rugby where he weight around 240 pounds.
His weight loss came when he picked up running in the UK during lockdown – a time when he felt isolated and lost. Gibson has continued to run, noting that it is a crucial component of maintaining his mental and physical well-being.
On his GoFundMe page, where his goal is to raise $5,000 for the Alex Panton Foundation, Gibson states that he knows what it feels like to be ashamed while seeking help, noting that, on the contrary, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Despite only running long distances for just over three years, Gibson placed second in the Cayman Islands Marathon on 3 Dec. – his first official marathon.
The marathon was a part of his three-month-long preparation for his upcoming charity run.
“I run a lot. Two months ago is when I started running around 60 miles a week, and then closer to the marathon I was running 100k,” he said. “But between the marathon and now, I’ve been recovering and preparing for the run.”
His preparation and willingness to take on such a grueling journey speaks to his passion for making a difference to the lives of those who may be suffering.
“Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that those in need receive the support and care they deserve,” he says.
Gibson will begin his 50.5 mile run at Starfish Point at 3 am. His first water stop will be at Frank Sound at approximately 6:45 am, then his second water stop will be at his old stomping grounds – the South Sound Rugby Club at around 9am.
He will then stop at Seven Mile Public Beach and, with about 5 miles left to go, he is expected to finish at Papagallo at around 11am.
He is inviting people to join him alongside him on any part of his route to show their support.
To follow his journey, visit his Instagram @GibboRuns. To donate, visit www.GoFundMe.com
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Well done Jonny – go for it !!!! We are so proud.