Hi, my name is Matt.

Like so many people, I’ve been trying to be brave while fighting struggles mentally, emotionally, and at times physically. Somewhere along the way, I lost parts of myself… and if I’m honest, I’m still finding them. I’m writing this from my bed because I have so much inside me that wants to give back, bring people together, and remind others that it’s okay to open up.

I’m a hairdresser, and one of the most important parts of my job isn’t just cutting hair — it’s listening. Every day, people sit in my chair and trust me with their stories, their struggles, and their lives. I try to support them in the kindest, most private, and respectful way I can. I truly love my job, and I love the people I meet through it.

This fundraiser is deeply personal to me and is inspired by some incredibly special people in my life.

My dad was my best friend, my mentor, and my hero in so many ways. He was genuinely one of the most special people I’ve ever known. He struggled with his own mental health, but he never let it stop him from being there for others — and we all know how difficult that can be. He was also a hairdresser, which makes this journey feel even more meaningful to me.

A year after losing my dad, I lost my nan — a woman filled with endless love. She faced health struggles from childhood, something I only fully understood after reading a little book she wrote about her life. Her strength and warmth left a lasting mark on me.

There was also another incredible woman called Rita. She was more family than family. She helped raise me while my parents worked incredibly hard to provide for us. Whenever life got busy or difficult, Rita was always there to step in and care for me. Even in her final years, she continued teaching me lessons about kindness, resilience, and love.

I carry so much from these three people. Their love shaped me, even during times when my own mental health made it hard for me to fully understand and apply those lessons. But I’m trying. I’m working on myself. And as we all know, it isn’t easy — but it is worth fighting for.

To honour them, and to support others who may be struggling, I will be raising money through my work. On the last Saturday of every month, my clients will have the option to pay for their appointments through this GoFundMe page instead of paying me directly. Every contribution will go towards supporting mental health and helping people feel less alone.

If you’re able to donate, share, or simply support this journey in any way, it would mean the world to me. Most importantly, I hope this helps remind someone that they are not alone.

Thank you for reading and for being part of something that means so much to me.