By Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
A Southport veteran is running the London Marathon this month to raise funds for former soldiers facing mental health challenges.
Jack Keher will run the 26.2 mile event on Sunday, 27th April 2025 to raise funds for the Combat Stress charity.
Jack joined the Army at 17 and served eight years in the Royal Engineers, from 2008 to 2013.
It included a tour in Afghanistan on Op Herrick 9 in 2008, with 24 Commando Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers.
He left in 2013 and worked in suicide prevention on the railways and in corporate security.
Jack then served in the Metropolitan Police for three years before leaving and returning to the North West with his wife Chloe and two boys, Jacob and Charlie.
The 36-year-old said: “During my service, I faced numerous challenges, both on the battlefield and within myself.
“After returning home, I struggled with mental health issues and often wished I had reached out to Combat Stress for support.
“As a veteran who has made Southport home for my family, I’m gearing up to run the London Marathon in support of Combat Stress, a vital mental health charity for veterans.
“Every step I take in this marathon is for the veterans who need this crucial support.
“This cause resonates deeply with me because, when I left the forces, I faced challenges with my ego, declining physical and mental health, and the journey of confronting my own issues.
“Though I didn’t turn to Combat Stress back then, I’ve come to appreciate how much they could have helped — and how important it is for others to seek support.
“This marathon is not just our run but a call to all veterans out there: It’s okay to ask for help!
“I hope my story inspires someone to take that step.
“If you’re from Southport and running the marathon too, I’d love to hear from you! Do you know your start time yet? Let’s meet up at the beginning to support each other and kick off this incredible day together.
“If anyone would like to donate to this amazing charity, my link is here: here: Combat Stress – Jack Keher
“Every contribution makes a real difference.
“Thank you for reading, and let’s cheer each other on — whether it’s on the run, or through life!”
Why Combat Stress?
Combat Stress is the UK’s leading charity for veterans’ mental health. It provides vital support to former servicemen and women dealing with issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Services include:
• 24-Hour Helpline: Offering immediate support and advice.
• Specialist Treatment Programs: Tailored to the unique needs of veterans.
• Community Outreach: Providing support in local communities to ensure veterans get the help they need close to home.
• Peer Support: Connecting veterans with others who have had similar experiences.
How You Can Help:
1. Donate via Jack’s fundraising page: Combat Stress – Jack Keher
2. Share: Spread the word by sharing my posts and using #jackruns4combatstress.
3. Engage: Follow Jack’s journey and cheer him on!
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