Story
Suicide is the main cause of death in young people under the age of 35 in the UK. In England and Wales alone around 24,000 attempted suicides are made by 10 to 19 year olds - that is one every 20 minutes.
I didn't know that until Miranda died.
PAPYRUS don't just work to help those who are struggling, but also make real change to perceptions and legislation that enhances the stigma.
In January Mike and I decided we wanted to try and raise more money for PAPYRUS, so we found the South Downs Midnight Marathon. Neither of us have done anything like this before - or were even involved in regular exercise. So that gave us just over 6 months to get ourselves from zero to marathon.
It is really comforting to be able to regularly focus on something positive for Miranda, and in the process hopefully help other people.
Miranda was a giving person, someone who always put everyone before herself, right up until the end. We want to raise money in her name, and her memory for the charity PAPYRUS.
It is an amazing charity, and they receive basically no government funding, so the money you donate is even more impactful.
If you are a young person thinking about suicide, or are worried about a young friend or family member, you can contact the charity and get advice and help.
My advice to you is don't risk it - If you are worried then contact them. This way hopefully another child, and family does not have to go through this.
HOPELineUK
Call: 0800 068 41 41
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Text: 07786 209697
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.