On June 15th 2019, Emily hosted her first “Brain Buddies” meet up in London.

A group came together in Battersea Park (one of Emily's favourite places), and spoke openly about their experience with anxiety, depression, addiction and other mental health challenges. The event was a great success, Emily was so happy following the meet up and she decided to organise a monthly meet up.

On the morning of the next meet up, July 13th, news broke publicly that Emily had died in a road accident the day before. The group decided to still come together and meet in honour of Emily.

On that day, as 10 people, some of whom were still strangers, sat together in their shared grief, it was discussed that Brain Buddies should continue and grow. The movement that Emily dreamed of - talking openly about mental health and breaking down the stigma would become a reality.

In Emily's own words (as she wrote in an Instagram post)... here is an introduction to “Brain Buddies”:

LET ME BE YOUR BRAIN BUDDY 😀

The reason I called my mental health meet up “Brain Buddies” is because I believe we ALL need a brain buddy!

👭

As I’ve said before, human connection when it comes to mental health is so important. To share how we feel with someone who can relate is extremely powerful and immediately reassuring.

😌

I wanted to create a safe space where people could talk about whatever they wanted. And feel supported by others who have gone through similar experiences.

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I want to start a movement of talking and sharing about what is going on in our brains.

❣

I hope you will come to a meet up and meet lots of new Brain Buddies.

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If you would like to donate to support the continuation of Emily‘s work we would be so grateful. We will also be making a donation to the Grace Dear Trust which is a mental health charity that was close to Emily’s heart.

Funds will be managed by Emily’s family and friends, and used to expand the Brain Buddies programme so we can reach and help as many people as possible. We have some very interesting projects we developing including an initiative we hope to bring to schools in the UK, so your support would be so appreciated to help with this.

We're absolutely heartbroken over the loss of Emily but determined to do her proud. We love you Em.

To keep up to date with Brain Buddies news please follow us on Instagram @brainbuddies.

Thank you ❤️