I am a baton bearer with the Baton on Hope in September covering part of the Bradford leg in memory of 2 very special men.

Sam

I met Sam through Creative Minds as we both attended creative sessions (albeit very different sessions, mine was art class, Sam's was rock climbing) I went on to volunteer alongside Sam at a mental health charity in Halifax. We both struggled with our mental health but we both wanted to make life better for other people who were also struggling with their mental health and offer hope, which we both felt had lacked in our own journeys. Sam sadly lost his hope and left us far too soon.

Kris

I met Kris rather randomly by chance early one morning whilst I was out walking my dog. As I passed Kris, I thought he had had a few too many beers the night before, he looked rather dazed but we still smiled at each other as we passed. Moments later I heard a splash. Kris had fallen in the canal by the lock. I ran back and quickly dunked my arm in to grab him. I know at one point I briefly let go but he just sank right back under the water as the lock was pulling him in. I grabbed him again and pulled him out (I am not sure how I managed it but they say you find strength from somewhere and that day I did). I later found out that Kris was epileptic and was probably pre seizure when I saw him. I ran and got the lock keeper to take care of him and take him home. Several months later Kris too was taken far too soon. Little did I know the brief encounter with him would change my life forever.