About 12 years ago I was warmly welcomed by a really wonderful group of people (many of whom had already been friends since school) and in doing so, I happily became a member of 'Watermead'.  A truely close-knit group of friends and we've shared and celebrated many fantastic times together ever since.

Tragically, just a couple of days before Christmas, we all lost our good friend Dan. He leaves a loving wife, two children (with a third due in the New Year), a family and a huge network of friends from many different parts of the community.  Sadly, Dan took his own life.  We had all spent the previous evening celebrating Christmas in our traditional way, laughing, joking and catching up on the year and looking forward to the next.  That night, Dan was Dan.  I had no idea he was struggling in life, none of us did and I certainly had no idea that when I said Goodbye to him at the end of the evening, it would be for the last time.

The last week has been a weird mixture of ever changing emotions and un-answerable questions.  I've felt lost and helpless.  My RED January journey won't bring Dan back, I dearly I wish it would, but it can at the very least help to highlight the importance of talking to each other, which is a pretty good place to start!

This January, the RED community will be challenging themselves to get active every day. Whether running, swimming, cycling or choosing a favourite fitness activity, REDers will be going the extra mile to support themselves and others.Their fitness and fundraising efforts combined with your generosity will help continue Minds life-changing work, ensuring no-one has to face a mental health problem alone. Thank you.