Alrighty, where to begin?

So, Mum and I are taking on the Rat Race- a 20 mile assault course with over 200 obstacles. Initially a provoking birthday present to the 'young, cool mum' as she constantly labels herself, we've decided to take this challenge further and hopefully make our pain and unprepared suffering on the track help someone in need.

As most people know I'm a vet student (we like to let everyone know how painstaking the admissions are, so yes we wear those Vet School jackets EVERYWHERE!), and as a vet student over the past 18 months I have learnt many things, some awesome (did you know pigs can't sweat!?), some weird (did you know the platypus is the only poisonous mammal!?), and then some shocking, like the prevalence of mental health issues and suicide rates amongst the veterinary profession.

Relatively speaking, 18 months is a short time, however, the number of people who I know who have suffered with these issues and subsequently attempted to take, and some unfortunately succeeded in taking their own lives, is no longer countable on my two hands. The statistics are stark, and frankly terrifying. A couple searches on google and countless names of those who have left us far too soon will show up, perhaps these deaths were preventable, and perhaps the resources simply weren't available.

Veterinary professionals whether that be surgeons, nurses, or students have to cope with insane amounts of pressure, this isn't to disregard any other profession, however, the statistics are showing there is clearly a gap. A lack of help, a lack of support or perhaps a reluctance to speak out; that's where VetLife comes in.

VetLife is a charity which was set up to offer free help to those struggling and in need, it is an invaluable service which relies on public donations to run. Their work is increasingly important and the demand for their services is ever growing.  

In the run up to the event we are asking for help and donations to support this charity, so it can continue to thrive and so that my fellow students, colleagues and myself have the reassurances, should we ever need help it will be there. 

So whether it's £1, £5 or even a hugely generous £20 it all goes to help those in need now and in the future. Your donation will mean so much to every volunteer working for the charity and everyone who seeks its services. If you're not able to donate at this time, all we ask is you share this post in a hope it reaches to someone who can.

Be Kind,

Pavla and Andre