Local man hiking from Eiffel Tower to Colosseum for mental health awareness

Caolan Kelly, an Irish adventurer and mental health advocate, is currently embarking on an extraordinary journey from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Colosseum in Rome to raise funds and awareness for Jigsaw, the youth mental health charity.

Currently well into his journey, the Offaly native has made it over the Alps and down to the Italian Riviera.

Caolan's ambitious solo trek aims to highlight the importance of mental health support for young people and to encourage those facing challenges such as anxiety, loneliness or isolation to seek help.

Having set out from Paris in early August, Caolan has been able to capture some truly awe-inspiring footage as he documents all the ups and downs of walking such a distance alone. He has now entered the final stages of his trek.

"Growing up, I faced my own battles with mental health," Caolan says.

"I know what it's like to struggle silently, feeling trapped and alone and not knowing how to reach out for help. But I also know the power of breaking free from those chains and I'd love to encourage others to reach out and seek support if needed in any shape or form.

"I started this challenge on August 3. As of today, I’ve covered over 900 kilometres, including crossing the Swiss Alps, and I’m now in Ivrea, Italy. This challenge mirrors the ongoing struggle many young people face with mental health—it’s demanding, exhausting, and often overwhelming.

"In Ireland, youth suicide remains one of the leading causes of death, highlighting the urgency for more robust support."

Jigsaw provides vital mental health support services to young people across Ireland, offering a listening ear, professional help, and resources to those in need.

Funds raised through Caolan's challenge will directly support Jigsaw's ongoing efforts to expand its reach and impact.

Steven Short, from Jigsaw, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative: "We are incredibly inspired by Caolan's commitment to youth mental health. His journey from Paris to Rome is not just a physical challenge, but a powerful message of hope and resilience. Caolan's openness about his own experiences will undoubtedly encourage young people to seek help when they need it. This fundraising effort will make a real difference in our ability to support young people across Ireland, and we're deeply grateful for Caolan's dedication to this cause."

You can donate to Caolan here: www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CaolanKelly.

You can follow his journey on his Instagram here: www.instagram.com/kelly_caolan.