Juan’s Chilly Challenge for Mental Health

You might remember Juan Callister, the Kirk Michael man who threw himself feet-first into the fast-paced world of downhill skateboarding during the Championships on the Isle of Man last July?

Well, this month, Juan’s swapped ramps and speed for something a little… colder.

Juan is taking on a ‘cold water exposure ladder’ for January to raise money and awareness for Isle Stand Up to Suicide, a charity supporting mental health.

The challenge? On New Year’s Day he spent just one minute in icy water, and every day since, he’s adding a minute.

By the 31st, Juan aims to reach a full 31 minutes in freezing conditions.

Chatting to Gef, Juan explained the inspiration behind the challenge: ‘So my mate, Albert Johnson, did a marathon every day for December.

‘I thought, oh, what can I do? Then January, we jumped in the sea on New Year’s Day, and I thought, oh, that’s a cool one.

‘I’ll do it for men’s mental health and suicide awareness, just trying to get people talking and aware of what charities are out there to help people in that situation.’

It hasn’t been easy.

Juan’s been braving rivers, cold tubs, and even the rough sea near the coast.

‘Some bits are colder than others. Some bits are really cold. Sometimes it’s not too bad, but it’s getting harder to warm up.

‘Afterward, you’re just freezing, shivering, not allowed to shiver, but you’re just freezing cold. Obviously, saunas, hot tubs and baths help try and warm up naturally as much as you can.”

This isn’t just a gimmick, Juan’s taking the challenge seriously and following expert guidance to stay safe.

And it’s all for a cause that hits close to home, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and encouraging people to speak up.

If you’d like to sponsor Juan and support his icy mission, you can do so HERE: https://www.justgiving.com/page/juan-callister-1.

FYI – There are a range of free services available in the island to help you, if you feel as if you need some support. They’re all listed here: https://www.gov.im/wellbeingsupport