Right, I’m not going to beat about the bush with the intentions of me raising money for charity. As most (if not all) of you will know, over 18 months ago, the gorgeous Áine McLaughlin took her own life in the midst of a harrowing depression. Having spent 10 wonderful years with her, I still can’t speak highly enough of how amazing a woman she was – stunning inside and out – but none of you will need convincing of that. She really was the most incredible daughter, sister, girlfriend, Godmother, aunt, and friend.

 

The photo I’m using is the last I have of me and Áine together, a month before her death. It means a lot to me as she was at a stage when even leaving the house terrified her. She didn’t want the photo to be taken, but managed to look beautiful, with a trademark radiant smile. The reality couldn’t have been further from the sheer courage displayed in the picture.

 

But let’s face facts – depression usually remains hidden and is something that affects so many people both directly and indirectly, whether they know it or not. It really is the most gripping of diseases, and so I’d like to raise some money to help those unfortunate enough to have to live with it.

 

Firstly, the charity. Annie spoke often of the fact she wanted to raise money for Mind, having bravely fought off a previous bout of depression. I know there’s a big national element to the charity, but it was always the one Áine spoke of. So, I like to think by raising money for them, I’m being an extension of what she would like to have done. Of course, the prospect that we all might be able to help someone is reason enough alone. We could help Mind save someone’s life...

 

Secondly, the event. On Sunday 01 June 2014 at 08:30, I’ll be setting off on 26.2 miles of sheer endurance around the beautiful city of Derry. The training has gone well (I hope) so far, but I’ve been stifled by two dodgy hips, and my inability to get below 10 fags a day. But I’m sticking at it, driven on by the memory of Annie and the absolute roasting I would have received if I quit. Hopefully, you can all appreciate that it’s been a fair sacrifice – coming home from work and hitting the roads for two hours is horrendous.

 

Thirdly, and most importantly, you. If you’ve made it this far through this essay, hopefully you’re willing to part with a few quid. I can’t stress how much it would mean to me. I know that Facebook is basically a charity social networking site these days, so it’s entirely understandable if you’d rather not donate. If you do wish to make a donation, anything would be amazing. 10p a mile works out at £2.60 (£2.62 if you’re a bit pedantic), and that would be a lovely way to start.

 

I’m not really the fundraising type. This is likely to be the only thing I do in memory of Áine, if I’m honest, so I’m hoping to make it a big one. Therefore, it would be a great boost ahead of the marathon to see a few donations rattling in.

 

Hopefully come 12:30 or so on 01 June, I’ll be approaching Guildhall Square and the miles and hours will have paid off. I’ll be out in Derry that night to get hammered, and hope to see some of you knocking about.

 

This one's for Annie.