Matt Heap

A little About Me

Monday 29th Apr 2024

The below is a post from the day I decided to go public about my mental health journey. Almost 5 years later I am in the best place I could possibly be, although still very much on my journey. I have made huge decisions to ensure I am where I am today and continue to do so. I help people, I support where I can and being able to do this ride is just another way for me to give back for all the help and support I've recieved over the years. I have my 2 beautiful children, a loving family and my gorgeous, kind and caring girlfriend (who will be riding pillion with me on the day) to thank for all they have done and continue to do for me. 

 

"Nothing will ever come close to the love I have for these two, they have no idea the strength, focus & clarity they have given me over the past 6 months, they’re the reason I’m still here as deep as that may sound to write this post, a post I’ve put off for so long but a post that isn’t designed for attention it’s designed for awareness it’s designed with the hope that my journey can help another, help change the stigma around mental health especially in young men. August 2nd 2019 I hit breaking point the lowest place possible after 5 years fighting with depression, August 12th 2019 was day 1 of the rest of my life, I made a decision in them 10 days to admit myself into the Priory Mental Health Hospital as an inpatient on a 4 week intense rehabilitation program, possibly the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make, leaving the kids for 4 weeks minimal contact, therapy 8 hours a day accepting, talking, understanding but the biggest thing of all learning, learning that it’s ok not to be ok but also learning what to do and how to manage when things aren’t ok. My journey is far from over I’m just starting a new chapter but that is down to accepting and recognising what needed to be done and what needs to be done going forward to allow me to be the best me I can be. Anyone male/female use my story as you will but know I’m here if you need to talk, cry, shout or just sit, if I help 1 person it’s made this worthwhile. #mentalhealthawareness#doitforyouandeveryoneelsewillbenefit"

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Wednesday 24th Apr 2024 On Sunday the 19th of May 2024, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.