In January 2018, we are taking on the challenge of a pedal-powered atlantic crossing to raise awareness for mental health and help put an end to societal stigma.
Our chosen charity is the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust. CWMT was started in memory of a young man who took his own life due to depression in his late twenties. When Charlie’s parents tell you he may still be here today if people’s abilities to spot signs of depression were better, it makes you realise exactly why action needs to be taken.
Mental Health is a worldwide issue that knows no boundaries, and the statistics amongst our demographic are particularly shocking:
- Suicide is the biggest killer of men under the
age of 35
- 10% of children have experienced a mental health
problem
- Depression affects 1 in 5 older people
- One in three men said they are embarrassed about
seeking help for a mental health problem
- Depression is the most widespread form of
disability, according to the world health organisation
We are aiming to raise over £200,000 for CWMT who’s funds are focussed on young people and education, as well as training up GP’s and clinicians. They also run projects alongside businesses that help to build mentally healthy work places.
Pedal The Pond is unique in that we are crossing the Atlantic in an ocean-ready Pedalo. Upon completion we hope to break at least 3 world records for the fastest pedalo, fastest man powered crossing and the youngest pedal powered crossing. We leave the Canary Islands in January 2018 and plan on getting to Antigua in 30 days.
None of this is as tough as being affected by mental illness, and at the same time none of it would be worth it if we didn’t feel we could make a difference. Together, we could make a profoundly positive impact on people’s lives – please give what you can afford.
Paddy, Max, Henry & Hec
Team Pedal The Pond
TOTAL INCLUDES DONATIONS FROM 365 SUPPORTERS ON A SEPERATE CROWD FUNDING PAGE, THIS MONEY HAS BEEN SENT DIRECTLY TO CWMT:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/pedal-the-pond-1/
