On the 8th of March, my dear friend Mark Priddle tragically took his own life. His loss has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew him. Mark was more than a friend; he was a beacon of light, a source of laughter, and a reminder of the importance of kindness and compassion.

In the wake of Mark's passing, I have been searching for a way to honor his memory and make a positive impact in the fight against the silent struggles of mental illness. That's why I've decided to participate in a boxing event with UWCB on the 21st of July. This event is not just about stepping into the ring; it's about stepping up for mental health awareness.

Mark's journey reminded me of the importance of reaching out, of breaking down the barriers of stigma and shame that surround mental health. No one should ever feel alone in their struggles, and no one should ever feel that suicide is their only option.

By participating in this boxing event, I aim to raise funds and awareness for Mind, a charity dedicated to providing support and resources for those affected by mental illness. Mind's work is vital in ensuring that everyone has access to the help they need, when they need it most.

But I can't do this alone. I need your support to make a difference. Your donation, no matter how big or small, will help fund Mind's invaluable services, from helplines to support groups, from advocacy to education.

Together, we can turn the pain of loss into a beacon of hope. Together, we can honor Mark's memory by fighting for a world where mental health is treated with the same care and compassion as physical health. Together, we can make a difference.

Thank you for joining me in this important cause.