On September 16th, 2017 my little sister went to sleep. On September 17th, we could not wake her up. The cause of death is yet unknown. She died aged 29. She struggled with mental health difficulties since childhood. She was misdiagnosed over and over again, went through numerous anti-depressants and was failed miserably by the NHS mental health system. Last year went to a private psychologist who diagnosed her as having Emotional Instability Personality Disorder. We cried together when we were told. She finally felt listened to. The Doctor recommended treatment and medication but the NHS psychologist told her the DBT treatment wasn’t available through the NHS.

Researching this, I found out that she could go out with our area to receive this treatment and explained this to her GP. He promised to look into this....after two months without reply she lost all hope. Her mental health spiralled and she slept most days away. She was prescribed a cocktail of prescription drugs, part of her downfall. Sertraline, 200g Pregabalin (3x a day!) and Diazepam. She leaves behind a ten year old little girl who already lost her Daddy to mental health and a four year old little boy.

Her friends organised a charity night but I couldn't think of one that actually helped her. I decided that I want this money to help our community directly. Nobody should have to wait months to see an NHS psychologist or wait weeks between appointments. This support should be accessible and readily available.

We will start a Mental Health Support, Advice and Therapy Hub based in the Newarthill Community Centre in memory of Gemma with the hope of expanding into other villages as we grow. People suffering from trauma, grief, loss and mental health difficulties will be supported through counselling, life coaching, financial advice, relaxation therapy and individual or group discussions.

As Gemma would say #alwaysbekind
"Do small things with great love and you'll make a big difference".