Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem. This can range from loneliness to schizophrenia. 

Huge steps have been taken to raise awareness and understanding of mental health and yet many are still not confident to talk openly about their mental health as they would their physical health. 

MIND has been working for 70 years to ensure people suffering with a mental health problem can access services they need and be treated with respect. 

My dear friend Gary used the services at Havant & East Hants MIND. They helped him carry out the simple day to day tasks that most of us take for granted. They gave him confidence and support when he needed it, and most importantly, love and friendship. 

Gary has some good friendships with .colleagues at Havant & East Hants MIND, but also worked there to help others, even becoming a Trustee. He often provided support to other members including giving lifts, shopping or to visit loved ones. 

Sadly Gary died in July. He was a gentle man who would rarely ask for help from friends but he cherished the difference Havant & East Hants MIND made to peoples lives and the impact they had on his.

Following the passing of Gary I wanted to raise awareness of MIND and talk about mental health problems to tackle the stigma. So I will be running the Great South Run in October this year for Havant & East Hants MIND. Raising awareness is one thing, but as importantly, raising funds to support people like Gary is critical. 

The marvellous, committed and selfless people that provide this support do so because they care. Let's help with that.

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.