Mortimer’s raising funds and starting conversations

IN HIS own words, Tom Mortimer hit rock bottom earlier this year.

Having returned from overseas, he found himself in and out of jobs, not living the lifestyle he desired. To top it off, the cancellation of Bellarine Football League season, in which he plays for Drysdale, took away one of the few positives he could see in his life.

But Mortimer, who has struggled with depression and anxiety over the years, chose to reach out to his doctor and discuss some ways to tackle how he was feeling.

One of these was physical activity. Mortimer began running a couple of times a week and it provided him with a much-needed escape from his thoughts.

These runs have been influential to Mortimer’s life, providing the outlet he so required.

To show what running has done for him and with the encouragement of a mate, he decided to run a marathon to raise funds for men’s mental health as part of Movember, but more importantly spark the conversation for anyone who may be struggling out there.

“It all seemed a little bit dark… I felt like I’d hit rock bottom,” Mortimer said.

“All it took was a simple conversation with the doctor and he suggested doing some more physical activity.

“Everyone is feeling the pressure of the world a bit more during this time, it’s just great to have an outlet.

“When you’re in those dark times you don’t think anyone is there for you, but there is always people to support you.”

Mortimer started his journey in Queenscliff on November 2, ran to Drysdale and finished in Geelong near Landy Field.

He completed the marathon with an amazing amount of support. Throughout the 42km journey, Mortimer had several friends and family travel the journey with him, whether by foot or on a bike.

He said that support was huge, to not only get him through the run, but also signifying the importance of having that same support throughout life.

As he finished the run the emotions poured out; tears of happiness. It was a proud moment for Mortimer, who reflected on the dark times he was navigating earlier in the year to the much better place he finds himself in now.

He conceded his life could have gone down one of two paths, but was so pleased to be feeling the happiest he has in five years.

Mortimer encouraged anyone who was struggling to seek help, and that can simply start with reaching out to a friend.

“Obviously it’s a really good cause and the money is nice, but I’d much rather raise awareness. The most important thing you can do is have a chat to someone and spark that conversation.”

Men’s mental health is close to the hearts of both Mortimer and the Drysdale Football Club, having lost clubman Ryan Gatgens after battling mental health issues. Mortimer is passionate about making the conversation between friends, particularly young men, a much more open and comfortable one to have.

“At first I was doing the run for my own mental health, but once I told people what I was doing and why I was doing it, you start to see how it can really help others. I’ve been able to have a few chats with some of my mates and make them feel comfortable about talking about those things, which is what it’s all about.”

Mortimer has already raised $1,860. If you would like to contribute, head to https://au.movember.com/mospace/14394562.