Strangers across Britain rally behind Sheffield man on 1,200-mile mental health challenge
“It's been a mind-blowing experience”
A Sheffield man who once said his life was "going nowhere" is now just 400 miles away from completing an epic charity challenge after being overwhelmed by support from strangers across the UK
Jordan Darby, aged 39, from Winn Gardens, Middlewood, is currently walking from Land's End to John O'Groats to raise money for men's mental health charity Andy's Man Club.
Now more than halfway through the 1,200-mile challenge, Jordan has already covered around 800 miles and raised more than £6,000 - more than double his original fundraising target.
Speaking from Scotland on day 34 of his journey, Jordan said the kindness he has experienced from complete strangers has been one of the most memorable parts of the challenge.
He said: "It's absolutely unbelievable. People are absolutely amazing and we don't see it enough. We see a lot of bad on social media and that sort of thing, but we don't see the good that's under our noses and the help that's available when we're happy to accept it."
Jordan said a friend has been arranging accommodation ahead of his route, helping him find places to stay throughout the country.
As a result, he has spent nights in everything from shepherd's huts and glamping pods to hotels and even a submarine.
He said: "I've literally been in free accommodation just because people, out of goodwill, have put me up for the night.
"It's been a mind-blowing experience."
The support has extended far beyond accommodation.
Jordan said strangers have bought him meals, invited him for dinner and offered supplies to help him continue.
One woman recently travelled to meet him in Scotland and brought him foot repair cream after weeks of walking had taken their toll.
Despite the challenge, Jordan says his biggest battle has not been his legs.
He said: "My legs are absolutely fine. It's like they don't know they've done days of walking.
"My feet and blisters have been the biggest problem. It's just been a case of battling on through really."
The self-employed walker originally planned to complete the challenge in 60 days but believes he could now finish in as little as 48.
Having averaged around 23 to 24 miles per day, he plans to increase his mileage during the final stretch.
Jordan said: "I've only got 400 miles left. There's every chance I might be finished in two weeks."
Throughout the journey, Jordan has shared daily updates on social media and says the experience has mirrored many of the challenges people face with their mental health.
He said: "The walk itself resembles mental health perfectly.
"I've had some days where I've thought, 'What am I doing?'
"You start doubting yourself and your own mind starts trying to take over. You just have to keep pushing through that thought process and win that fight against your own mind really."
Jordan has previously spoken openly about his own struggles with mental health, including a suicide attempt in 2017, and says the challenge is about encouraging others to seek help earlier than he did.
"Charities like Andy's Man Club are so important," he previously said.
"I didn't reach out, but I want others to know they can because if I had, I could've saved 15 or 20 years of my life."
Alongside the fundraising, Jordan's supporters back in Sheffield are organising a major homecoming fundraiser.
A race night and raffle will take place at Jubilee Sports Club on Clay Wheels Lane from 3pm on July 4, which also marks the 10th anniversary of Andy's Man Club.
The event has attracted more than 70 prizes donated by businesses and supporters, including tattoo sessions, gym memberships, beauty treatments, vouchers, vehicle detailing and a weekend caravan break.
Jordan said: "I might be out here on my own carrying my backpack and moving my legs, but everyone's backing me back home.
"Whether it's my partner listening to me on a bad day or my friend ringing me to tell me he's found me somewhere to stay, everyone's playing a part.
"I'm just a little lad from Sheffield who went for a big walk."
Anyone wishing to enter the fundraiser raffle can contact organiser Holly Aston via Facebook.
Donations can also be made through Jordan's JustGiving page in aid of Andy's Man Club.