A runner completed an 86-kilometre fundraising challenge on Sunday as a tribute to his best friend who died by suicide.
Thomas Robertson, 20, started his run at the University of St Andrews and finished at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh, raising over £28,800 for SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) in memory of Finlay MacDonald, who died in 2024.
Thomas invited friends and family to join the run for the final kilometre, so they could celebrate passing the finish line together.
Thomas said: “I wanted to start my run at Finlay’s university in St Andrews, before finishing at our school in Edinburgh where we were classmates.”
“The run gave me a lot of time to think about Finlay, and how lucky I was to have him as a friend. There are so many Finlays out there who have lost their lives to suicide, and it just shows how much more we need to do.”
The money raised will support at least 12 schools to benefit from SAMH’s Peer Supporter programme, which increases the mental health knowledge and skills of young people, parents and carers, volunteers and staff through free workshops and information sessions in schools.
“I’m relieved that something so terrible that happened will now have a positive impact on schools. People see the value in supporting mental health, and I’m really grateful that people have been generous enough to donate.”
Thomas shared his thoughts behind the epic challenge in a viral social media video, which has been seen by over 130,000 people online.
Catriona Wilson, Mass Participation Events Manager at SAMH, said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to support Thomas in this challenge, and to witness the strength and heart he’s poured into honouring Finlay’s memory in such a powerful way.
“Thomas’s incredible efforts have helped reduce the stigma around suicide and encouraged people to open up and ask for help.
“With his help, and everyone who has donated, at least 12 additional schools will now benefit from SAMH’s Peer Supporter programme.”
Thomas Robertson
Rev. Nick Blair, Chaplain at Merchiston Castle School where Thomas and Finlay were pupils together, said: "Community defines Merchiston. A year ago, we mourned with the MacDonald family after losing their beloved Finlay. Today, we unite again, supporting his close friend Thomas, whose fundraising effort in Finlay's memory is deeply moving.
"The solidarity from old boys, parents, staff and pupils shows who we are: a community that stands together. It's also a moment to stress that young men must never feel ashamed to discuss their mental health.
"Breaking silence saves lives. Today, we run with Thomas and raise our voices with SAMH, honouring Finlay and supporting vital mental health work."
To learn more about SAMH’s programmes for children and young people, visit samh.org.uk/about-mental-health/children-and-young-people
Support Thomas’ fundraising efforts through his JustGiving page.