24-06-2025
Carlisle mental health worker completes two ultra marathons for charity
A Carlisle-based mental health worker has completed two ultra marathons to raise funds for a cause close to his heart.
Bruce MacLaren, service manager at Kirk House, took on the challenge this month, raising £730 for Mind, a UK mental health charity.
Mr MacLaren, who works at the Northern Healthcare supported living service and has worked with the organisation for nearly four years, said: "Statistically, one in four people are impacted by mental health problems, and not everyone gets the support they need.
The Carlisle-based mental health worker raised £730 for Mind (Image: Supplied) "I see daily how crucial the right support can be for people.
"Mind does incredible work, and I'm proud to have done something meaningful to help them."
This is Mr MacLaren's third fundraising effort, following previous campaigns for a learning disability charity and for children affected by cancer.
His latest challenge was driven by both professional dedication and personal loss.
This is Mr MacLaren's third fundraising effort, following previous campaigns for a learning disability charity and for children affected by cancer (Image: Supplied) He said: "There were moments I questioned whether I could finish.
"But I kept going, not just for myself, but for the people I was running for."
Mr MacLaren lost two close friends within a few months, one to suicide and one to a drug overdose.
He said these losses strengthened his resolve to raise awareness of the need for accessible, compassionate mental health care.
Also driven by his role as a father, Mr MacLaren hopes to set a positive example for his young daughter and inspire her to value giving back.
Training for the ultra marathons required significant time and discipline.
Balancing work and family life, he completed long-distance runs in the Lake District on weekends to stay motivated.
Despite persistent knee and foot pain, he pushed through the physical and mental challenges.
Mr MacLaren praised the encouragement from the Northern Healthcare team, especially deputy manager Joe Scott, who supported him during the difficult week between races.
He also received advice from a friend experienced in ultra running and messages of encouragement from colleagues on race day.
One particularly meaningful moment came when a former service user, now a staff member he helped recruit at a previous organisation, made a generous donation.
Although they hadn't worked directly together, the individual had followed Mr MacLaren's progress closely, leaving a lasting impression.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr MacLaren highlighted the connection between physical and mental strength.
He said: "The love and support from people has been exceptional.
"The support from Northern Healthcare has been amazing throughout.
"There have been so many heartfelt comments and messages.
"I've really appreciated every one."
Mr MacLaren hopes his story will inspire others to take small steps toward physical activity as a way to improve mental health.
He said: "It can be hard to get started, but give it ten minutes and let the endorphins do their job.
"You'll feel better and that feeling can carry you through the day."
Although his fundraising for Mind concluded with the ultra marathons, Mr MacLaren isn't finished with personal challenges.
He is now preparing for an Ironman triathlon in August, which will include a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon.
