Climbing Machu Picchu to raise money for mental health

My mum was 27 years old when she travelled to Peru and climbed Machu Picchu to raise money for her chosen charity. This year, being 27 myself, my dad and I will also be making the same 4 day journey, arriving at the mountain on what would have been her 47th birthday. (June 24th) It brings me much needed comfort to know I will be making this journey at the same time in life she did, and I know she will be by my side every step of the way. And to be doing this with my dad is very special too.

The rise of discussion around mental health, particularly in the last few years, although important, is simply not enough. We know it’s OK not be OK, we know to be kind, but what we must do MORE of, is create safe spaces for those with suicidal thoughts, to ensure them that they are not a burden, not selfish, not weak or unimportant. You are believed, loved and supported. And the world will always be a much better place with you in it.

Mental illness can be complex, and there are many things that contribute to the decline of someone’s health and well-being. I hope to bring awareness around not just mental illness, but the much overlooked factors that affect it, such as misdiagnosis’ (specifically ADHD/BPD/OCD), the little support disabled people/carers experience, the lack of support given to families who have lost someone to suicide, the cost of living crisis, and the extreme lack of knowledge and research surrounding peri-menopause and how it is directly linked to a large percentage of women who experience anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

The charities in which we are raising money for are:

SAMH

CARERSUK

The menopause charity

With the money donated our chosen charities are able to expand their research, gain access to more resources, and directly help those who have been affected by mental illness. Any money donated is greatly appreciated by me and my dad, and we hope to document our trek in June. I must add that a small portion of money raised will contribute towards our flight. Our accommodation, gear and spaces within our guide group have all been paid for.

Thank you for taking the time to read!