As some of you may know I lost my little sister to an early death by suicide. Next year will be the 20th Anniversary of her death. When she died I was a full time Mum to two beautiful small daughters, in a new town, 200 miles from family and close friends. I did my best to cope with the grief of losing a sister in such tragic circumstances. (But please know it has taken a huge toil on my mental health and well-being.) 

I’ve always regretted not doing something to mark Alison’s death and raise awareness of the importance of good mental health. I have now decided to do a wee challenge. To mark the anniversary of the loss of my sister.

To mark the 20^th Anniversary of Alison’s death and to maintain my own healthy mental health and well-being. I propose to cycle between 800-1000 miles in the next year. I am not doing it to raise money but if anyone would like to donate to a charity close to my heart. ‘Depression Doesn’t Define Me’ a local charity started by Evie Douglas was also completed suicide in 2014. The charity helps SUPPORT and EDUCATE people about depression.

In the words of Evie ‘We need to break the stigma of mental illness. I'm a 21 year old girl with depression. I can't do much, but I have a voice and I want to be heard. E x ’

Weeks after celebrating her 21st birthday Evangeline Dobson Douglas (Evie) completed suicide. Evie exuded creativity, she studied, sang, painted, taught and choreographed dance, travelled worldwide, was an exercise instructor, and participated in extreme sports: marathon running, skiing, Tough Mudder, microlighting and sky diving. She had so much to live for.........But Evie also struggled with her mental health and after years of depression she needed the pain to stop.We miss her so much. Our charity supports others with mental health issues.