Your friends are fundraising. Don't miss out, opt in.

Fundraiser complete

This page is now closed, but you can still donate to the cause directly

Masai Trek for Depression Alliance

Alison Cooper is raising money for Depression Alliance
In memory of Kieron
Donations cannot currently be made to this page
In August 2016, Depression Alliance merged with Mind, the mental health charity. We believe no one should have to face a mental health problem alone. We’re here for you. Money you donate here will be used exclusively for services previously run by Depression Alliance, e.g. Friends in Need.

Story

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Your sponsorship is so much appreciated!

I left on 10 June on the 10-day charity trek with the Masai in Tanzania, raising funds for Depression Alliance. There were 11 of us, and we walked on average of 7 hours a day, not breaking for the mid-day heat, which reached temps in excess of 95 degrees. It was very tough going, with difficult terrains, and was definitely one of the most difficult challenges I've ever faced, but I did it, and it was an amazing experience.

When I felt like giving up, or felt exhausted and discouraged, I just remembered Kieron, and why I was there, to raise funds for and awareness of Depression Alliance. There's still time to donate to this essential organisation, so please do so. It is imparative that Depression Alliance receive much needed funds to enable them to continue their work, and provide the best resources for the community.


Some of you may be visiting this site for the first time, but I felt I had to do this trek in memory of a good friend of mine who died in January of this year, and had been suffering from depression in silence for some time. He had recently earned his MSc in Water and Waste Engineering. He was brilliant, and because of his work and dedication, there is a reliable potable water supply in East New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea. That is only one of the many things Kieron achieved in his short life. He loved being outdoors and would help anyone who asked, and even those who sometimes didn't! Anyone who had ever known Kieron would have been better for it, as he touched every ones life in a very special way. I felt he was there on this trek with me, rooting me on. Memories of him inspired me to keep pushing myself even when I didn't think I could go on.
Depression Alliance believes that the stigma and lack of accurate information surrounding depression continues to prevent people from seeking and finding appropriate and vital help when it is required. Early intervention and information are crucial in enabling those affected by depression to recover quickly and - critically - in preventing further episodes. Just a few of the many services Depression Alliance offers: *Local Support - Their national network of self-help groups enable people affected by depression to share experiences and coping strategies with others in similar situations. *Publications to help those suffering and affected by depression. *Writing to someone who understands - they can put people in touch with someone through their penfriend scheme. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Depression Alliance will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. So please sponsor me now! Many thanks for your support, and please rememer to visit the Depression Alliance website to learn more about donating on a regular basis by direct debit. Thank you!!! Alison For additional information on Depression Alliance: www.depressionalliance.org

Donation summary

Total
£1,286.93
+ £206.46 Gift Aid
Online
£810.00
Offline
£476.93

Charities pay a small fee for our service. Learn more about fees