From the 27th of May I'll be attempting to cycle 20,000km around the world.

Here's my story and why I am fundraising for Samaritans:

I have struggled with my mental health since I was in my teens, I've been on psychiatric wards, tried therapy, counselling, medications etc and none of it seemed to work, this led me to believe that my battle with my mental health was hopeless and I was unrelatable.

In 2020, when I was 20 years old I attempted to take my own life.

After surviving this attempt for a long time I suffered from a lot of shame and guilt. I kind of shut down my emotions and went into auto pilot. I didn't take care of myself, disgusting I know but I wouldn't shower, I wouldn't brush my teeth, I would stay up till 5am, wake up at 9am for work and open a can of pepsi for breakfast. That was all I felt I was capable of, I couldn't fathom having the drive or energy for anything more.

But in 2022 my mum was diagnosed with cancer. This really did kick my butt into action as I desperately wanted to be there for her. I started taking care of myself, starting with the basics: brushing my teeth, showering and trying to eat/drink healthier. This started to give me more energy throughout the day meaning I had time and energy to support my mum. Even if it just meant I could do little things for her. My mum was actually rediagnosed in 2023 but now I'm happy to say she's cancer free!

I was blessed in 2020 that I was given a second chance at life so I was able to be there for her during this time.

That's why I would like to raise money for Samaritans. Samaritans gives people a chance to be able to talk to a nonjudgmental listening ear in their darkest times; this saves lives. Keeping people alive for themselves, family, and friends.

I also want to prove to people that anything is possible! I could never fathom having the energy to do something like this even a year ago. You can go from wanting to end your life to living your dreams, that's why it's important to keep fighting and stay alive even when times get tough.💚