Russ Cook (Hardest Geezer): I Haven't Told The Whole Truth About Africa!

Russ is an absolute legend. I'm in my 40s and had never ran. Started following project Africa while they were in South Africa and haven't looked back, two half-marathons down and training for my first full marathon.

Weird saying this as a complete stranger to Russ, but I can't be the only one who is monumentally proud of him. It's hit a different level after watching this with relatable family struggles, questioning your purpose and falling into the same regime the vast majority of people in the UK do - living for the weekend, drinking and repeating. Breaking that cycle is a huge stepping stone and I know first hand it isn't easy. What he's gone on to achieve through pure grit and determination will inspire everyone. Young, vulnerable lads in particular. Russ, if you're reading this, you are a hero. A million for charity is nothing short of epic, but it's the effect you've had that doesn't show in the monetary donations, which is was has really struck a chord with people of our generation all over the world. I really do hope everything settles down to a manageable level, but take every single piece of praise you can, because you (and the team) have worked your bollocks off for it and it's thoroughly deserved. Top quality as always Mr Bartlett 👏

We are going to break the DOAC record of the most likes on a single video for RUSS! Hit the like button on the video above 👆🏽👊🏾❤️

I don’t think people including myself can actually conceptualise how long 7 hours on the back of a motorbike being unable to communicate with anyone apart from your inner thoughts is especially when those inner thoughts are purely telling you that you are most likely going to die

Russ is something else, achieving his goals without any hint of self pity. Is grateful for his life, holds no grudges to ward his emotionally stiffled (inter generational trauma) parents. He understands that his childhood could have been better, he could have been heard, but his parents did not have the tools to guide & support his personality. Possible ADHD?over stimulated, down/alone time, or simply not understood. Russ graciously, still holds gratitude, without a hint of self indulgentance or narcissism, which is a growing and very unattractive trait on social media. I wish him and his lady, love luck goodhealth and happiness always. ❤

The mental strength to drag himself from his previous situation to accomplish what he has just done is incredible. Makes you wonder how much potential there is out there that is being held back by addiction.

Oh my, what a nice young man.... He's a very true and honest man. That is very rare in this society right now ...Hat off to you darling boy...An emotional interview, one you kept it together, well done you...... Blessings darlings from Granny Linda in OZ

Such a great interviewer, and I am so proud of Russ for opening up about everything. I am glad that he knew when to be silent and give Russ the space to process and talk. Thank you

This episode got me so emotional, the DR Congo story is something moment-shaking.

Russ is so relatable in the sense that he used to feel hurt because he never felt loved or understood by his parents who probably wanted but didn’t know how help him so running away from frustration, failure, hurt helped him to take the focus from painful feelings and have the time along to process everything. His girlfriend became his safe person who accepted him but he wanted her to be his person so he is willing to change.