Sam Allison: Skateboarding 1,500 Miles for Mental Health Awareness
By Imogen Howse
Meet Sam Allison, a 21-year-old skateboarder from Brighton, who is embarking on an extraordinary journey: a 1,500-mile trek from Britain to Morocco. His mission? To raise funds and awareness for the Ben Raemers Foundation, a charity dedicated to mental health support.
A Personal Journey
Sam’s decision to undertake this ambitious challenge stems from his own struggles with mental health. He describes skateboarding as a lifeline during difficult times, stating, “Skateboarding saved me.” His journey is not just about the miles; it’s a testament to resilience and the healing power of community and sport.
The Challenge Ahead
Allison has meticulously planned his route, estimating that the journey will take between 50 to 60 days. This means he’ll need to cover approximately 30 miles each day. To prepare for this adventure, he saved up funds from his job at UberEats, demonstrating his commitment and determination.
His gear includes a hefty backpack filled with essentials: a tent, sleeping bag, clothes, and even a massage gun to help soothe his muscles after long days on the board. The weight of the backpack is a small price to pay for the freedom and joy he finds in skateboarding.
Current Location and Route
As of now, Sam is in Chartres, a picturesque town just outside Paris. His next stop is Bordeaux, where he plans to meet up with friends. From there, he’ll skate through Spain towards Gibraltar, eventually crossing the Strait of Gibraltar via ferry to reach Morocco. Each stop along the way is not just a waypoint but an opportunity to connect with people and share his story.
Inspiration Behind the Journey
Sam’s inspiration for this journey came from witnessing someone skate across the United States. This sparked a desire to undertake a similar adventure, but with a deeper purpose. After experiencing mental health challenges himself, he felt compelled to raise awareness and funds for a cause close to his heart.
He reflects on his struggles with depression and anxiety, admitting, “I was scared of life. I was scared of the future.” It was during these tough times that skateboarding became his refuge, allowing him to escape negative thoughts and focus on the present moment.
The Healing Power of Skateboarding
For Sam, skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s a form of therapy. “When you’re skating, you’re so focused on what you’re doing—trying not to fall off—that you can’t think about anything else,” he explains. The thrill of landing a trick releases a rush of dopamine, creating a sense of joy and accomplishment.
He emphasizes the importance of community within the skateboarding world, noting how it fosters connections and support among skaters. “It really did save me,” he says, highlighting the camaraderie that comes with sharing a passion.
Embracing Nature and Mindfulness
As he travels, Sam finds solace in nature, describing the experience as “incredibly peaceful.” He compares it to meditation, noting how being on the road allows his mind to slow down amidst the fast-paced nature of modern life. “I feel so at ease,” he shares, appreciating the simplicity and beauty of his surroundings.
Daily Life on the Road
While much of his journey involves camping, Sam occasionally stays with friends or kind strangers he meets along the way. Recently, he had the opportunity to stay with a woman who offered to cook him pasta, showcasing the kindness of people he encounters.
His journey is not just about the destination; it’s about the experiences and connections made along the way. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, both physically and mentally.
Supporting the Ben Raemers Foundation
Sam is raising money for the Ben Raemers Foundation, established in memory of professional skateboarder Ben Raemers, who tragically died by suicide in May 2019 at the age of 28. The foundation aims to provide support and resources for individuals struggling with mental health issues, a cause that resonates deeply with Sam.
Through his journey, he hopes to inspire others to talk openly about mental health and seek help when needed. By sharing his story, he aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to find their own paths to healing.
Sam Allison’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of community support. As he skates towards Morocco, he carries not just his gear but the hopes and stories of many who have faced similar struggles.
