Story
Dogan Halil, Why I’m Walking
I’ve known Michael Hollinson since 1988. We were young men then, working together, travelling the world, learning our way through life. Over nearly four decades, our friendship has carried us through work, family, laughter and some of the hardest moments a person can face.
I was there when Michael went through his own mental health crisis as a young man. I saw what it meant to be at a breaking point and what it means to come through it.
Over the years, our families became close. I watched Darcy grow up. I saw her laugh, her energy, her kindness. She wasn’t a name in a story to me, she was part of our lives.
When Darcy died, it shook all of us. The loss was devastating, not just because a young life was taken far too soon, but because of what it meant for Michael, Debbie, and their family. No parent should ever have to walk through that kind of grief.
That is why I am taking on this challenge.
This walk is not about personal achievement or adventure. It is about love, remembrance and doing something meaningful in the hope that other young lives can be saved.
In November 2026, I will walk 100 kilometres across the Sahara Desert to raise funds for PAPYRUS, the charity dedicated to preventing young suicide and supporting young people in crisis. This walk is not about endurance or adventure. It is about standing with people I love and doing something meaningful in Darcy’s memory.
PAPYRUS provides a lifeline to young people when they are struggling most. Supporting their work is one way I can honour Darcy and help ensure more young people get the support they need when it matters.
If you are able to donate, whatever the amount, you will be helping turn this walk into real, life-saving support for young people and families.
Thank you for helping to make this journey count. And for walking beside us in spirit.
Dogan x