Musician Charles Costa is running the PCT Southbound to raise awareness for two mental health nonprofits.
Meet Charles Costa, a UK-based musician formerly known as King Charles. He is on a mission from Canada to Mexico to run 90 marathons in just 90 days. His efforts are in support of The JED Foundation, an organization dedicated to safeguarding emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and young adults in the United States, and James’ Place, a UK-based charity dedicated to suicide prevention for men.
A Deeply Personal Cause
This is a deeply personal cause for him. Ten years ago, he suffered a brain trauma from a skiing accident, which has since had an immense impact on the evolution of his mental health journey. Through his own personal hardship, he has developed a deep sense of empathy for others facing similar struggles. For Costa, running and singing have persisted as sources of joy in his life. He is now taken to the PCT with a great sense of purpose, ready to transform his personal story into what he hopes will serve as inspiration for others. Costa began his run at the Canadian border on July 20th with a set goal to finish on Oct. 20th near the Mexico border. As one chapter has closed for King Charles, an entirely new one has begun for Charles Costa as he shares what running and singing have and continue to mean to him through a renewed light of adventure.
The Pacific Crest Trail Association wishes Charles good luck and appreciation for fundraising for mental health awareness!
If you would like to support Charles Costa’s journey to make a difference, you can follow along on Instagram @charlescostaofficial and donate to the causes for The Jed Foundation on CrowdChange and for James’ Place on GoFundMe. Costa will be joined by running clubs, other athletes, students, and organizations throughout his journey to raise awareness.