I have spent many years hiding behind the word "depression".  If you have never had depression it is sooo difficult explaining or even having the energy to explain it to someone who hasn't had it....no one gets it until YOU get it.  I have been so very lucky to have friends and family who do understand as much as they can. My father died almost 4 years ago now and that triggered my depression ; everyone copes in their own way including my mother (who will hate reading this as in their generation everyone got on with everything...and she still does in her own way..mummy-i'm sorry but you have to understand we all cope in different ways).  My way was to fall to pieces and not quite know how to cope without the best part of me not being there. And then it went from there.  I don't think i need to explain why/how/what...but it happened.  So many people don't have what I got - SUPPORT, once they realised my situation.

My husband's brother died over 10 year ago now and he somehow managed to find the strength to carry on without falling apart (on the outside) - he is my hero, but I was also his rock, which he has also been for me, but sooo many people don't have that.  My point is, everyone has their struggles in life and they cope in different ways... it might feel so meaningless for others, but those going through it, how little you think it might be-it is brutal. 

 I also want to point out that some of your friends might be the most lively of the group and you might think "they're amazing, they are the life and soul of the party".....they might well be the ones that are struggling the most.  Lots of people with depression are the loudest at the parties, the gift of the gab etc etc....don't judge a book by its cover.  Please please check on your friends; they may not be what they seem.

I want to raise awareness for those people who don't want to speak out - and its fucking difficult to do it, but i'm doing it and i want others to feel they can do it too - they are not failures, they are not shit mothers/fathers/friends...they are just going through a hard time, no matter how small or big (it's big to them).  I want to tell them that if they are in trouble and can't cope - there is HELP! 

So from 3rd November to 30th November I am going to walk The Stables....for those who don't know it, it's a 8.5k hike, and when I say hike it's a brutal uphill hike to the mountains and back down again..not sure how many steps up, but i will tell you in due course! It's a great hike to do once a week, but every day for 28 days......it's going to be horrible, so what i ask of you is to sponsor me for Walking The Wounded, and I have been told that the money will go to those with PTSD and depression.  

Please note the fundraising is in Hong Kong Dollars! X thank you