Joan Laplana, a brave ICU nurse, has decided to run the London Marathon to support a cause close to his heart. Having experienced a breakdown after tirelessly working through the pandemic, Joan is determined to raise awareness and funds for the Cavell Trust, an organization that supports the welfare of nurses, midwives, and healthcare assistants.
At the age of 46 and with three children, Joan’s life took a turn when he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) earlier this year. Seeking solace and a way to improve his mental health, he turned to running. Little did he know that this simple act would transform his life.
Through running, Joan found a newfound level of fitness and well-being. He no longer relies on medication to cope with his anxiety and mood swings. But his journey has not been without its challenges. Joan continues to be haunted by the faces of the Covid-19 patients he cared for, some of whom tragically lost their lives.
During the pandemic, Joan volunteered to return to the frontline, a decision he considers one of his proudest moments. However, it was during this time that he lost a patient who was the same age as him, with daughters the same age as his own. The grief and helplessness he felt were overwhelming. Joan vividly remembers the heartbreaking FaceTime call between the patient and his daughters just moments before he passed away. This traumatic experience was a turning point for Joan – he realized he needed help.
Supported by his wife, Joan sought counseling and began to write down his thoughts as a way to process his emotions. He acknowledged the impact of the macho culture in his home country of Spain, which made it difficult for men to express their feelings openly. Joan’s mental health took a toll, and he felt immense loneliness during the bleak and dark times of the pandemic. He found himself building walls around him, attempting to protect his family but unintentionally distancing himself from them.
But Joan’s story doesn’t end there. He recently started a new job, and with a new sense of purpose, he joined a running club in March. Since then, running has become more than just exercise for him. It has become a lifeline, improving his mental health, reducing his anxiety, and even helping him lose three stone in weight. Joan’s determination and resilience are truly remarkable.
In July, Joan participated in a charity event, climbing to the top of Mount Snowden dressed as a pint of beer. Channeling his newfound passion for running, Joan has set his sights on a monumental goal – to beat the Guinness World Record for the fastest man to run a marathon dressed as a pint of beer. This incredible challenge, dubbed #Pint4Cavell, aims to raise £10,000 for the Cavell Trust.
On October 3, Joan will take on the London Marathon, and in the week leading up to it, he will also run the Sheffield Half Marathon. His unwavering determination and commitment to helping others are an inspiration to us all.
Joan’s story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and purpose. Let’s support Joan and the #Pint4Cavell challenge as he helps raise awareness and support for those who tirelessly care for our well-being. Together, we can make a difference.
