A young man from Doncaster is running a half marathon to raise money for a charity who support victims of rape and sexual abuse

Ryan Gadsby dedicates his time to raising awareness about child abuse as he feels it is a topic which is not often spoken about publicly.

Ryan, 19, from Skellow, said: “I’m a survivor of child abuse and I choose to speak openly about it so that I can help others.

“I remember when I was younger I went to the local library to use their Wifi to look up ‘young men trapped in abuse’ to see what others did to escape - but I never found anyone.“I want to be that person for others.

“I put videos out online talking about my experience so that people can relate to them.”

Ryan shares even the darkest parts of his story with the world.

He said: “I stood in my bathroom at 16 years old, with the shower running, ready to end my life.

“I stopped because my girlfriend called me and I chose at that moment to tell her everything.

“After speaking out I struggled with PTSD and depression.

“I quit college and my job and never left the house.

“I starved myself and even ended up in A and E due to this.”

But Ryan is now in a much better mental space and has documented his healing process online.

He said: “My mission is to make abuse a more open conversation with my movement #LETSTALKABUSE, especially for young guys who I feel are among the hidden sufferers of this issue.

“7.5 per cent of adults aged 18 to 74 years experienced sexual abuse before the age of 16 years but we don’t talk about it.”

Ryan wants to raise £500 or more for Dracas a charity in Doncaster who support victims of rape and sexual abuse.

“The charity really helped me so I want to give back,” he said.

“They really do all they can for survivors.”

You can donate to Ryan’s charity run here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.