Robbie planks for PTSD cause
A Livingston teenager has set himself a gruelling challenge to raise awareness of post- traumatic stress disorder.
Robbie McColl (16) had initially been nominated by a friend to take on the 22-day push-up challenge to highlight the effects of the mental illness. But Robbie decided to raise the stakes 10 times higher. Now he’ll hold a plank position for 220 seconds every day for 220 days to support PTSD Resolution.
The charity helps UK veterans and their families resolve PTSD brought on by trauma endured while in the military.
Robbie said: “I was nominated to participate in the 22-in-22 push-up challenge to raise awareness for post- traumatic stress disorder. I took it upon myself to adapt the challenge for a better effect and a higher awareness of the condition.
“My challenge is a lot tougher and for a longer period of time, but I feel it is worth the effort and I would encourage others to also participate in the challenge even if they are not nominated.”
PTSD is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
Robbie added: “I fully encourage everyone to donate to the charity and to the cause, or if you can’t afford it or you have your reasons to not donate, I encourage you to raise awareness about PTSD.”
A spokeswoman for PTSD Resolution said: “Robbie wanted to make the challenge a more difficult one, and to carry it on for a longer period of time. This is an awesome effort, and in doing so he has chosen to support PTSD Resolution.” You can donate to Robbie’s cause at https:// www. justgiving. com/ fundraising/givetoptsd.