Louise Kelly was an immensely talented vet - a graduate of Cambridge University where she gained a “blue” for athletics, she went on to run her own vets practice whilst still competing at the highest level in sport. 

But despite being a much loved daughter, sister and aunt with many supportive friends, on February 26th 2019 my incredible sister-in-law Louise found that life had become so difficult that she decided to end it.

Please help me raise some money for Vetlife so they can support people who find themselves in a similar place to Louise but can hopefully find a way back from the edge.

Vetlife are a charity that provide independent, confidential and free help for everyone in the veterinary community including veterinary nurses and students. The charity provides a 24/7 phone and email helpline; professional mental health support; financial assistance; information and resources.

Mental health issues in the workplace are becoming increasingly common as our working lives become ever busier and pressurised. Sadly many organisations simply aren’t equipped to deal with these issues and cannot support colleagues through difficult times which results in similar tragedies.

What will I do in return for your generosity....

On September 7th I’ll be attempting to complete The ROC triathlon in Abersoch. For those not in the know this involves:

1. 1500m sea swim
2. 50km bike ride to the foot of Snowden
3. 6km run up the Watkin Path to the summit of Snowden
4. 6km run back down
5. 50km bike ride back to Abersoch
6. 1km sprint for glory along the beach!

Louise was going to be competing in the event with me. Louise had competed in many triathlons including the 2010 & 2018 European Championships and the 2006, 2007, 2013, 2017 World Championships.

But this is my first triathlon, so I’m not competing just trying to complete it! 

It’s going to be tough but with encouraging words from Louise ringing in my ears - “Train hard or go home” and “if you can’t taste blood you’re not trying hard enough” - I’m determined to finish the race.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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.