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My Story: Why I’m Fundraising for Mind

​Hi, my name is Deborah.

​On November 23rd, 2019, my world completely changed. I lost my beautiful, kind-hearted brother, Steven Bass, to suicide.

​Steven was so much more than just my brother; he was my go-to person, my best friend, and a man with the biggest heart. Over the years, he struggled deeply with his mental health. He was the type of person who would always step up to be someone else’s support system, even while fighting his own demons.

​For many years, I helped him fight those demons. But on that tragic day in 2019, I couldn't. I remember seeing him drive past my house and look directly into my eyes. Something inside told me to stand up, and I’m so glad I did. But after he passed by, my calls and texts went unanswered. Then, I received the most heartbreaking text message from him. From that exact second, my whole world came crashing down.

​The Critical Need for Better Support

​Steven suffered mentally for years, but when he needed professional support, it simply wasn't there. On a number of occasions when he was in crisis, the services were too busy, or he was told to "ring back the next day." When someone is in a mental health crisis, "tomorrow" is not good enough.

​While I have heard that professional support has improved for some over the last year or so, there is still a massive lack of funding. The resources just aren't there to support everyone who desperately needs it.

​Finding Hope Through Helping Others

​Losing Steven took a massive toll on my own mental health. Having already struggled for over 20 years, this loss pushed me into the deepest, darkest tunnel I have ever experienced. I was in and out of the hospital, terrified to be left alone, yet simultaneously wanting to completely isolate myself.

​Eventually, I found the strength to be the mum my children needed me to be. Over a year ago, I decided to channel my pain into purpose and became a volunteer at the National Grief Advice Service (NGAS).

​Through NGAS, I support others navigating their own worries, anxiety, and grief. Ironically, helping and listening to others is exactly what pulled me out of my own dark tunnel. As a volunteer, I see firsthand how much of a difference a listening ear can make.

​Why Mind Needs Your Support

​Knowing that I can be someone else’s lifeline has completely changed my life. I know that by fundraising for Minds I am doing the right thing.

​Mind works tirelessly to ensure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone, and that vital crisis support is funded and available when people need it most. Every penny raised will go toward making sure the next person who reaches out for help isn't told to call back tomorrow. NGAS - National Grief Advice Service is my chosen charity to support alongside MINDS this year as the work that is put in to help people wouldn't be able to go ahead with out the support of others.

​Thank you for reading, thank you for remembering Steven with me, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for any donation you can spare to help make someone else's life a little better.

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