
Charlotte's fund for The Charlie WallerTrust
I think many of us recognise that there is a rapidly growing mental health crisis amongst young people in the world we live in today.
Eden (my eldest) had a beautiful, outgoing, quirky, wonderful, kind friend through primary school who started to suffer into her teens. She developed body dysmorphia and took her own life in July at the very tender age of 18. We were all floored. Utterly distraught. It felt incomprehensible.
Unfortunately this story is no longer uncommon. Suicidal ideation is rife.
As a schoolteacher, I have the privilege of listening to speakers that come in from time to time to talk to us, and contribute to our knowledge of mental health amongst children. A founder of the Charlie Waller trust, spoke to us about how his charity supports vulnerable young people and about losing his son to suicide. I was incredibly moved, hurt, sad, angered, frustrated, frightened, in awe, inspired. It hit me hard.
Eden has her friend’s photo on her phone home screen. It’s been there since she found out she is no longer with us. She looks at it dozens of times a day. It’s all she has left.
I am running the Brighton half marathon with my sister, Jennie at the end of February in order to fundraise for this most worthwhile charity. The photo is of me at the start of the Hackney Half 5.5 years ago, which almost killed me. I’m hoping to beat that time and that it won’t kill me!
If you are able to spare anything, no matter how small, it would be so much appreciated. Every penny will make an impact.
In memory of Xinny.
Much loved and missed.
The Charlie Waller Trust
Our vision is of a world where people understand and talk openly about depression, where young people know how to maintain wellbeing, and where the most appropriate treatment is available to everyone who needs it.
Organizer
Charlotte Dyer
Organizer
England
The Charlie WallerTrust
Beneficiary