I met Femi when we were 8 years old. For as long as I knew him, I always thought of him as a very close friend. No one who knew him will ever forget his brilliant laugh and sense of humour. We were all lucky to know him. He was one of those unique souls who was just a blessing to be around. Femi was a well-liked guy, and many of us who went to primary school together stayed close friends with him all the way through school and college.

Towards the end of 2019, a group of my friends and I awoke to news that Femi had been taken into hospital after experiencing psychosis. From that night on, he battled with the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Every one of us who cared for Femi saw his struggle firsthand. Everyone tried their best to be there for him, being so young at the time there was very little we could do other than just be his friend.

Despite the efforts of Femi's family and friends, as well as the many health care professionals that cared for him through the years, Femi took his own life in the summer of 2024, aged 21 after a nearly 5-year battle with the illness.

I have had joint problems since I was 16 and was recently diagnosed with ankylsing spondylitis which is an immune condition resulting in bone fusion. I am now receiving medication and in a much better physical position as my pain has been eased and my movement has become easier. That pain has made the last few years tough for me and I have lucky to have the support of my family to help me through some dark times.

To celebrate my newfound situation and in memory of Femi, and all those who put their own needs aside to care for him, I am raising money for Rethink Mental Health, an amazing charity that helps people with mental illnesses with a wide range of support. They aim to improve the quality of life of those with mental health chllenges.

To do so, I am undertaking the 3 Peaks Challenge, with my Dad, whohimself has aches and pains from his aging body! Due to our limitations, we will be doing it over three days, starting on the 17th of August and finishing on the 19th.

I would be so grateful if you could make whatever donation that you can afford.