On the 25th of May 2015, I admitted to myself and those around me that I had a problem with substance misuse. Daily drug use had eroded away any sense of self worth I once had, left me feeling suicidal, alone, and ultimately helpless in the face of life. As a close friend once summarised to me, I had "a mind which wanted to leave existence behind, while trapped inside a body which would not let it".

Almost four years later and my life has changed completely. I have gone from being unemployed without a college education to now studying Economics at a London University while holding down a job. I have friends and family who love and support me, and to whom I am able to return the favour. I no longer struggle with suicidal thoughts (the odd hallucinogenic flashback spices things up every now and then), I have built a new sense of self-worth. Ultimately I am able to deal with life's challenges without needing to self medicate.

Since the 25th May 2015, I have celebrated each year that has passed with either a dinner, or a little holiday. This year however, I want to give something back to those who not only helped and supported me when I most needed it. But who also taught me the skills needed to cope with life on life's terms.

Turning Point operates across England and provides a wide range of support for those who need it. I would not be the person I am today without the compassion, hard work, and understanding their staff provided. Turning Point worked with me at every step of the way to support me through my substance misuse, ultimately providing me with the foundation to build a new life.

On the 6th of April I will be travelling to St Bees, Cumbria, to begin a 190 Mile (306 km) Hike across the North of England. I am doing this alone and am aiming to complete the hike in 12 days. I will also be carrying all my camping gear with me the whole way. 

It would be amazing to raise both money and awareness for Turning Point as the support they provide for those who need it can honestly be truly life saving. Any donations raised will go straight to Turning Point , and if (like me) you are a poor student, simply sharing this to raise awareness for the work they do would mean just as much! (If you do happen to donate you can pick some songs for my Spotify playlist, please be kind!)

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.