We are creating this fundraiser in memory of a truly incredible, much-loved lad, Joe Ogden who sadly on the 20th of May 2019, at just 33 years of age we lost to suicide.

The news of Joe's death sent shockwaves through the local community.

An overwhelming sense of heart wrenching guilt, and emotions consumed those friends and family closest to him that he left behind.

Shock, anger, guilt, despair, confusion, so many why's and what if's that could never be answered now he was gone.

Joe really was the most amazing friend to so many people, and it hurt to think he couldn't turn to us in his moment of need, for the support, help and comfort that he truly needed during the most difficult moments of his life.

Today, the 10th of September is World Suicide Prevention Day, and it is the day we have chosen to start our fundraising journey in memory of Joe.

Cowling Recreation Ground Committee have very kindly allowed us some space within the recreation ground, to create a wellbeing garden. With the help of the Charity Chrysalis Prevention of Men's Suicide we hope to create an amazing space for the community, in memory of Joe and we are starting this fundraiser to allow those who knew and loved Joe to leave a donation in his memory.

We have so many incredibly happy memories of Joe and we would love to create a space that allows people to get together with friends and share all those happy memories, a place where people can come together, relax, feel safe, talk with others about their worries and reflect on the positives in life.

I am not very good with words, but I will say Suicide is not inevitable nor should it be a taboo topic we need to help break the stigma surrounding suicide and encourage everyone to talk about their feelings. Next time you think someone is having a difficult time and maybe having harmful suicidal thoughts, strike up a conversation and interrupt those current thoughts and show them you care. Let's not lose any more people we love to Suicide.

This is just the start of our fundraising journey, and we would love you to join us in our fundraising events throughout the year.

Subject to funds raised we hope to create the garden in time for world mental health day 10th October 2026, where we will come together to celebrate what would have been Joes 40th Birthday weekend.

Please share our fundraiser far and wide.

Thanks

Kirsty x