TWO Islanders are lacing up their trainers – and in one case, taping up their mouth – to raise money for ADHD Jersey after being inspired by their own experiences living with the condition.
Will Crawford and Shane Wridgway are each taking on extreme challenges over the coming months, aiming to raise both funds and awareness for the non-profit organisation.
Mr Crawford, also known as ‘Bare Wills’, is embarking on a challenge that he’s calling a “Mouth Taped Marathon.”
He will begin with the Jersey Hospice Half Marathon taking place in March before progressing to a full marathon, running with his mouth taped shut and breathing solely through his nose.
The unusual approach is deeply personal to Mr Crawford, who says nasal breathing has been a “game-changer” for managing his ADHD as well as “helping with focus, clarity, emotional regulation, and mental wellbeing”.
He said: “This marathon is a reminder that resilience isn’t about pushing harder, but learning better ways to support our brains and bodies.”
Mr Crawford explained he is taking on the challenge to stand in solidarity with Islanders living with ADHD, many of whom are described by the non-profit organisation as having spent their lives trying to “breathe” in a world that does not always understand them.
In a message shared by the organisation, ADHD Jersey described him as “strong, determined, inspiring and a true champion for the ADHD community,” adding that his courage sends a powerful message to children and adults with ADHD to “keep pushing, keep believing and keep going.”
Meanwhile, the organisation’s second fundraiser, Shane Wridgway, is embarking on a significant challenge of his own – running 50 half marathons in 50 consecutive days, followed by the TMF Island Walk around Jersey on day 51.
The extreme challenge will see him cover hundreds of miles in less than two months, starting on 1 May and ending on 20 June.
ADHD Jersey said Mr Wridgway’s commitment to the challenge demonstrates that “extraordinary things happen when people believe in yourself”.
The organisation said he is “proof that with passion and purpose, impossible suddenly becomes possible” and that he “isn’t just pushing limits, he’s smashing through them.”
While both men are raising money to support ADHD Jersey’s services in the Island, the non-profit organisation says the impact goes beyond financial support.
ADHD Jersey founder, Rachel Boss said: “I am incredibly proud of both Will and Shane for what they are undertaking in support of ADHD Jersey.”
“The physical and mental commitment required for either challenge alone is immense, so to dedicate themselves in this way for our organisation is deeply humbling,” she continued.
Ms Boss explained that both the fundraisers are “fully aware of how urgent our funding situation is”.
She continued saying: “ADHD Jersey currently operates without sustained statutory support. We fight every single day to be seen, heard and understood, which often mirrors how many of us who have been undiagnosed have felt for years. “
“Running ADHD Jersey can feel very similar.”
“We push forward without consistent backing, advocate tirelessly, and build essential support for families who would otherwise have nowhere to turn.”
Ms Boss said: “What Will and Shane are doing also demonstrates clearly what people with ADHD are capable of.”
“Their commitment, integrity and willingness to push themselves physically for others make them an absolute credit to ADHD Jersey.”
Mr Crawford has set himself a fundraising target of £1,000, while Mr Wridgway’s target is £6,000.
Islanders wishing to support the fundraiser can donate via their individual Sports Giving pages.
