Many of us have been affected by poor mental health and suicide. It’s everywhere and with a dire lack of effective services to assist, we are losing loved ones.

Over the last two years I’ve lost four very special people to suicide. I miss them so much and continue to use their inspiration and encouragement to be and do the best that I can.

I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors, I shared this passion with a dear friend, Liam Studham. We would explore Northumberland, staying in bothies and building shelters. Liam always encouraged me to be brave, to be a bit daft, and to work hard at achieving what I wanted.

Liam and I planned on walking the Hadrian's wall together once covid restrictions were lifted. Unfortunately he took his life early in 2021. I’ll carry his bag and do the walk we had planned, raising money for Mind. 

Shirley Brennan became a family member when I met my girlfriend - she welcomed me into her family and friendship circle so warmly and openly. A compassionate and caring soul who devoted her time to helping others using holistic therapies. Shirley inspired me and still does, to see the best in people and practise empathy, be selfish in taking time for myself, but be selfless in loving and helping others. Shirley endured horrific trauma as a youngster which led to a demise in her mental health. The services we expected to help just weren’t there and she took her life. 

Ewan brown was a dedicated activist and artist in Newcastle Upon Tyne. He used his art to speak up for what he felt was right and to empower and protect others. I met Ewan at parties and raves and he would always have a fun story to share and point of view to consider. Ewan took his own life a few years ago and his name and presence is still felt strongly amongst communities in Newcastle, notably through the wall art around the city and the Newcastle Ewan Brown Anarchist Book Fair.

PJay Brydon was the brother of a friend, Thomas, who helped me discover my love for sound system culture, reggae, and dub. I was always buzzing to see Pjay at the dance with a beaming smile on his face and encouraging the good times. Unfortunately Pjay committed suicide recently and this has again shook the close community in Newcastle. 

I’m although I met her only briefly before she committed suicide, I have become very close to her family members. Judith was Shirley’s sister and mother to Craig, Andrea, Steph, and Tina who I now consider my cousins and friends. I currently live in Judith’s house and feel that through stories of her i have become to know her. I feel that we would have got on pretty well, she was nifty and thrifty- proudly making things for herself and around the house. 

During the treck I’ll be reflecting on these special people and remembering all of the happy times we spent together. But I also must highlight the lack of suitable support - the early intervention, understanding, and specialist care which was and is needed. Shirley and Liam won’t be coming back although I can only hope that we can raise some funds to make an impact and assist others. 

I’ll Vlog and document the journey. Starting on the west coast I’ll dip my boot in the water, walk to tynemouth to dip my other boot in the sea; just like Liam and I had planned.

I’ll be mostly wild camping, staying in Liam’s favourite bothy, but also one or two nights in a bnb to recharge devices and get a wash. 

If you want to help me along the way; buy me a pint, chip in for a bnb, train ticket to west coast, or hot meal then use my Pay pal  -  https://www.paypal.me/purebuzzin - of course my priority is raising funds for Mind so please do support this fundraiser and help get the word out and highlight the need for change in our inadequate and failing support system surrounding mental health, well-being and suicide.

Liam was convinced that one day when we were out walking he heard a farmer shout ‘neep neep’ to the sheep and they all came running to him. I think he was away with it, but when ever I pass a sheep I tell them neep neep! 

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