Riding2Recovery: All around the ragged edges

Having cycled unsupported around the entire UK coastline whilst managing poor mental health, and having written his first book documenting this journey,the author turned his attention to what would constitute the next step forwards in his recovery. In deciding to cycle over 3500 kilometres from Lands End in the UK to the far north of the Shetland Isles, via Irelands wild and rugged west coast and the Outer Hebrides,the author had a new challenge that would provide that step. The physical challenge of the cycle journey would be equalled by the mental challenge of the many ferry crossings and flights that would he would he would be forced to undertake on this new adventure. The purpose of this trip would be to continue to raise awareness of the issues surrounding poor mental health whilst fundraising for the UK mental health charity MIND. Had the author known that the UK was about to receive its worst summer on record he may not have ever set out. As it was he was left to battle the elements, his mind, and the physical stresses of such a major undertaking.

I've been many things in my life. A father, teacher, husband, climber, paraglider pilot, and a cyclist,to mention a few.
My adult life has been plagued with poor mental health, and when I broke down six years ago I was left in a wilderness of craters and debris.
The next three years saw the passing of my mother, father, and sister, adding to my despair.
With support from my doctor and therapist I survived each day and the emotional outbursts that ruled my life at that time.
After a chance meeting with some touring cyclists in Scotland I remembered how much I had enjoyed cycling in the past. On my return I purchased a cycle and, after a twenty year gap, began to ride again.
As I progressed, the idea of cycling around the UK coastline came to me. I wanted to talk openly about living with poor mental health, and I also wanted to do some fundraising for the UK charity Sustrans.
Since that small beginning, my life is slowly changing. I have now completed four long distance rides, raising awareness and reducing stigma of what it means to live with poor mental health. Riding2Recovery is a long term project that grows as I do.
I've always loved the outdoors, and now it's helping me to live a different lifestyle, a life that is more sustainable.
Where my adventures will lead me is unknown, but I do know that I will meet many interesting people on the way and continue to write about them and the places I visit.
I hope my writing helps you enjoy those places as well.