Thanks for taking the time to show your support and donate to help me raise money and awareness for MIND - The Mental Health Charity.

MIND are there to help people who suffer with mental illness and support the families of those who, like my own, have been unfortunate enough to experience a loss.

I am hoping Mind can help my family understand and come to terms with mental illness following on from the loss of my 15 year old brother.  He had a world ahead of him and was nothing short of loving, kind and caring. Such a popular boy, who had started his G.C.S.E.s early and seemed to have a great future ahead of him.

He is more than greatly missed and I have no words to describe how this has affected all our lives. MIND do a fantastic job of helping and understanding and maybe one day we will understand too. Perhaps one day you will benefit from an early awareness of the signs, enabling you to help someone you love in time.  I had no idea that Mind are only one phone call away and will help with whatever mental obstacles lie in front of you. 

If only Callan had known that there were people out there, people other than his close family and friends, who would have listened and almost certainly have understood.  I'm sure now that would have made all the difference to him and maybe he'd be here still.

Regretting that he didn't speak out and ask for help will change nothing. However recognising some positives that can come from our traumatic and heart-breaking tragedy can help those who still have a chance. I hope another outcome of awareness of MIND's work will be our support of MIND and keeping Callan's memory alive for all his close family, friends and the local people, who have already shown great kindness and support. 

1 in 4 people suffer and most stay silent. I wish Callan hadn't because otherwise he might well have joined me on this trip for his own fulfilment and satisfaction.

I appreciate everyone's support in helping me raise my target for this amazing cause.

With much love,

Louise