A former rugby player from York is preparing to push his mental and physical limits this August in a series of extreme challenges to raise money for a charity that means a lot to him.
Nick Stephen is aiming to raise funds for York Mind, a charity that supported him through his own personal struggles.
In the space of just two weeks, he plans to take on an ultra-marathon, a 24-hour gym session, and the National Three Peaks Challenge.
Since 2020, Nick has been battling the long-term effects of post-concussion syndrome. While playing the sport he loved, he sustained a series of head injuries that continue to affect him today.
Nick began his rugby career as a child playing for York Rugby Club, before going to represent Scotland at age-group and student levels. He also captained the Edinburgh University team for three years.
He later went on to compete in the Scottish Premiership with Edinburgh Accies, where his rugby career ultimately came to a close.
“I remember speaking to a doctor in Edinburgh who said ‘it’s like breaking your leg 14 times and expecting it to be the same’ when referring to my brain and the number of times I was knocked unconscious in such a short period of time,” he said.
Around five years ago, the consequences of those injuries began to show, taking a toll on both Nicks’ personal and professional life.
“From light and noise sensitivity, never ending migraines, a total inability to sleep, irritability, behavioural changes, memory loss, tinnitus and later, anxiety and depression, my symptoms continued to get worse,” he said.
Despite the difficulties he was facing, Nick tried to maintain a brave face. However, in reality, he was barely coping.
He often woke up disorientated, unaware of where he was or what he was supposed to be doing.
In 2024, Nick was admitted to hospital and required urgent medical care due to the progression of these symptoms.
“After finally receiving the treatment I needed I feel I’m in a place to give back to those who helped me in darker moments of my life.”
Now, Nick has planned out a series of challenges for this upcoming August, as he hopes to prove to himself and those around him that no matter what life throws at you, with action and accountability, anything is possible.
Changes are already underway as he prepares for the next few months, which has began with him losing 15kg in weight, getting back into shape, returning to work, and establishing a new everyday routine.
Since implementing these changes, alongside taking treatment seriously and spending time with those closest to him, Nick has noticed significant improvements in all areas of his life, but he knows that not everyone is as lucky as him.
“I think so many people talk about mental health, large companies pay lip service to it, universities and schools will do a talk once a year, Governments use it as a buzzword, but for me it’s become an ambition to do something to actually help people, not just talk about.”
Between 16 and 29 August, Nick will take on The Speyside Way UltraMarathon, a gruelling 24 hour challenge in the gym, and the National Three Peaks Challenge.
He has set up a fundraising page for those wishing to support his efforts. All the money raised will go directly to York Mind, helping others access the mental health support they need.