This Halloween, the streets of Glasgow saw something a little different — a pantomime clown, red nose and all, running through the city with a mission.
Behind the laughter and colour was a purpose rooted in something much deeper — to raise awareness and support for mental health and cancer charities across Scotland.
Because sometimes, the biggest smiles hide the heaviest stories.
Bringing Joy with Purpose
Swapping my usual running kit for a full clown costume, I set out to remind people that kindness, play and connection still matter — that laughter can be a bridge between strangers and a spark of hope for those silently struggling.
A huge thank you goes to Diamonté Productions for the incredible outfit, which turned the run into a spectacle of smiles, honks and double-takes. From drivers cheering out their windows to strangers stopping for photos, it was a moving reminder of what happens when joy meets purpose.
October Highlights
- Squid Game Guardian at Aberdeen parkrun
- Minion mayhem in the city centre
- T-Rex takeover across Aberdeen
- Superman & Spider-Man soaring through Glasgow for The Nook
Each costume, each kilometre, each smile shared has been another step forward in breaking stigma and building hope.
Progress So Far
Since June 2025:
- 1,464 km covered (running, cycling & walking)
- £1,475 raised for SAMH (+£7,000 in 2021)
- £932 raised for Clan Cancer Support
- 126 cold showers & 31 cold dips
- 10K+ Instagram views | 7K+ LinkedIn impressions
- 22% of the 18-month challenge complete
Every kilometre has been a small act of resistance — against stigma, silence and the idea that one person can’t make a difference.
The Heart of the Journey
To my wife, Anna, and our little Daisy — thank you for your love, patience and belief. This challenge has always been about more than distance — it’s about meaning, resilience, and community.
And to everyone who’s donated, cheered or smiled along the route — you are the heartbeat of this mission.
Looking Ahead
As Month Six begins, the goal remains simple: more miles, more smiles, and more hope.
What began as a personal healing journey has grown into a shared movement — one that shows how compassion and courage can truly transform pain into purpose.
From Pain to Purpose — One Step, One Smile at a Time.
Support the Journey
Mental Health: www.justgiving.com/page/frompaintopurpose
Cancer Support: www.justgiving.com/page/hopeovercancer
About the Author:
Marius Coste is a Facilities Management professional with Elior UK, currently 22% through an 18-month endurance and awareness challenge combining running, cycling and cold-water therapy to raise funds for SAMH and Clan Cancer Support.