Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland will experience mental health problems. Invariably this subject is taboo. 40% of men won’t talk about their own mental health problem whereas women tend to be better at talking about how they feel. Personally, I fell into the trap of internalising issues which left me feeling isolated, desperate, frustrated - the list is pretty long. However, with the help of family, friends and my best friend I managed to break through the darkness into the light.

In order to raise awareness and help perhaps even one person I am doing a 5,000 metre swim in the Orchard Leisure Centre on Saturday 14 November. Those of you who know me understand that I’m no Michael Phelps. I did this distance in the early 90’s in around 1 hour 40 minutes and hope to do it this time in around 2 hours. Who am I kidding completing it will do just fine 🥵

The charity Action Mental Health NI would be so grateful for any money raised. And remember every little helps 

Quotes:

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

I hide my scars with I’m ok.

I think we’re all mentally ill. Those of us outside the asylum hide it a little better and maybe not all that much better at all.