A determined fundraiser, Tony Phipps, is set to take on the London Landmarks Half Marathon this weekend in an extraordinary challenge - running the entire 13.1 miles with a fridge strapped to his back. Tony, a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, is taking on this unique feat to highlight the weight of mental health struggles and encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing.
Tony, who has a long-standing commitment to raising awareness for mental health, hopes that by physically demonstrating the burden many people carry every day, he can inspire others to seek support and reduce the stigma around mental illness.
Speaking about his upcoming challenge, Tony said: “For many people, living with mental health struggles feels like carrying an invisible weight every single day. By running the London Landmarks Half Marathon with a fridge on my back, I want to make that invisible weight visible and remind people that they are not alone. Support is available, and no one should have to carry their burden in silence.”
The London Landmarks Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday 6 April 2025, will see thousands of runners take to the streets, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Tony’s challenge aims to not only complete the race but also spark important conversations along the way, encouraging people to check in on their own mental health and that of those around them.
In preparation, Tony has been training hard. His training sessions have included taking the fridge up Pen y Fan mountain in Wales—talking to people on the way up and down, encouraging them to donate to a worthy cause. His final training run was yesterday, joined by a crowd of local runners in his hometown. As for nutrition, chicken madras is proving to be an effective fuel!
All funds raised from Tony’s challenge will go directly to the Livewell Foundation based in Plymouth which provides crucial support to those in need. His fundraising efforts are expected to gain significant traction, with many supporters rallying behind his cause and commending his creativity in tackling such an important issue.
The Livewell Foundation exists to create meaningful change, helping people across Plymouth, South Hams, and West Devon lead healthier, happier lives. As the charitable arm of Livewell Southwest, a leading independent social enterprise providing integrated health and social care services, the Foundation channels vital funding into projects that have a lasting and transformative impact on local communities.
At its core, the Livewell Foundation is dedicated to tackling social isolation, improving overall health and wellbeing, and preventing ill health. Through targeted grants and strategic support, the Foundation empowers organisations and initiatives that make a real difference, ensuring that individuals and families can access the resources they need to thrive.
Beyond community funding, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in enhancing Livewell Southwest’s clinical services by supporting specialist equipment, advanced staff training, and vital amenities for both staff and patients - providing enhancements that go beyond what is covered by the NHS. Every pound distributed by the Foundation is an investment in a healthier, stronger, and more connected community.
Tony added: “This is about showing solidarity with those who feel weighed down by their struggles. If one person feels empowered to reach out for help because of this, then it will all be worth it.”
Chris Davies, chairman of the Livewell Foundation, stated: “Tony is a great friend of mine—we served together in the forces, so I know firsthand how passionate he is about supporting mental health. He’s witnessed the impact it’s had on many friends over the years, which makes his dedication to this cause all the more powerful. I’m incredibly proud of everything he’s achieved, especially the phenomenal amount he’s raised. I’ll be running alongside him on the day, and it’ll be an honour to share that moment with him.”
To support Tony’s incredible challenge and donate to his fundraising efforts, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/tony-phipps-1730719368121
For more information or media enquiries, please contact thelivewellfoundation@gmail.com
