Story
Lakes, Meres and Waters for Every Life Matters
I am aiming to complete the Lakes, Meres and Waters long distance challenge during the week Sat 31st May to Sat 7th June. My hope is that this challenge will help to raise awareness of the local charity Every Life Matters which strives to create suicide safer communities in Cumbria.
Losing my husband Paul to suicide in 2018 was completely devastating and I miss him every day. The suicide figures in Cumbria are startling and we all think it won’t affect us - until it does.
I spend many days wandering and exploring the fells and it is a very important part of my physical and mental health. As I approach my 50th birthday, I feel very lucky to be here and to be able to enjoy these type of adventures. This walk is also a celebration of the amazing healing powers of the outdoor environment we have on our doorstep.
What is the challenge?
Lakes, Meres and Waters is a long-distance challenge covering over 100 miles of dramatic and varied Lake District scenery with over 20,000ft of ascent and connects 26 iconic bodies of water - although our route will visit more including Loughrigg Tarn and the mid-point of the walk will be home in Ambleside.
The challenge is more often attempted by fell runners aiming to complete a route around the waters in the fastest time. My approach won’t break any records - it will be to complete the challenge within a week and enjoy all that the route has to offer.
I am a strong believer in the value of the outdoors in supporting mental well-being. The hours I have spent wandering in the fells have been essential therapy in helping me when life has been challenging and in trying to navigate a path forwards through suicide loss. The process of literally putting one foot in front of the other and the perspective of becoming a tiny dot within an amazing, timeless landscape really makes a difference.
Why am I doing it?
I want to raise awareness of the charity Every Life Matters which plays a vital role in suicide awareness and training, support for people living with thoughts of suicide and those bereaved by suicide.
Being part of the Every Life Matters bereavement peer support group has recently helped me to feel more able to share my experience and it is so so important to try to remove the stigma in talking about suicide.
Talking about suicide save lives.
On average more than one person a week dies by suicide in Cumbria, more than double the amount that die on our County's roads. Every death by suicide is an avoidable tragedy. Suicides are preventable. We need a society where people feel able to reach out for help. Where members our communities have the knowledge and skills to recognise when someone is at risk and to know how to offer support. And services that are accessible and effective. Suicide is everyone's business.
There is loads of information on the Every Life Matters website about support and the part you can play.
Who is at the centre of all this?
Paul really was the heart of our family. He had so much life to look forward to and we will never understand what caused him to lose hope. He is missed every single day.
