WELL was recently contacted by our Champion Heather who became aware of the great initiative that colleague Danny was involved in. Here is Danny’s story.
During the month of November my daddy (Danny) and I will be 'moving for our mental health', completing at least one hour of physical activity every day. In addition, I am giving up chocolate for the month, which will be the biggest challenge of all 😂
We will be raising money for S.T.E.P.S, based in Draperstown, Northern Ireland. S.T.E.P.S (Suicide, Talking, Educating, Prevention, Support) was set up for the community by the community, to raise awareness of and offer support services for suicide and mental health, and to reduce the stigma around it.
They run weekly classes (yoga, pilates, Walking for Wellness and horticulture) to encourage people to get out of the house, engage in physical activities and feel connected in their community. They also deliver workshop to schools, sports clubs, organisations and businesses, and offer free counselling services to individuals who need support, as well as for families affected by suicide.
We will be raising this money in memory of my uncle Jimmy, who we lost a year ago. Suicide remains the biggest killer of men under 50 in Northern Ireland.
Please donate what you can. I also encourage you to join us and 'move for your mental health' this month, especially during the darker winter days at home, in whatever way you can - walking, running, gym, yoga, a sport, etc. We are here to support each other 😊
If you would like to donate to Danny & her Dad, you can do so on the below link.