This year I am modelling for the Durham University charity fashion show. We’re raising money for CALM, a charity which operates a suicide prevention helpline and web chat. 

This is a cause near to my heart. Near enough every day of my sentient life I have struggled with depression, suicidal ideation, dissociation and various forms of self harm. I have attempted suicide a handful of times in my life, twice last year here in Durham. 

I cannot express the importance of charities like CALM and I have used their services a number of times at points of crisis. Often we don’t want to burden our loved ones with the fact that someone they care deeply for is struggling, and in times like these the ability to talk to a complete stranger and seek the help that you need is vital. 

Every day I when I wake up it is difficult. Every day I wake up and will into being an energy that was never really there to begin with. I’m glad I’m alive. There are so many people I am yet to love, things I have yet to experience and feelings I am yet to have. It’s thanks, in part, to charities like CALM that I’m able to sit here and express this. 

As part of DUCFS, I will be conducting an individual fundraising effort. At the beginning of next term I am going to walk in circles around palace green for 24 hours, from 00:00 - 23:59. Any donations or sponsorship would be immensely appreciated.

Love, always

Dan