Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I am using my latest book “Behind the Smile” to raise money for Depression Alliance (now a subsidiary of MIND) in memory of my eldest son Jason who died tragically after a four year battle with depression. Being able to donate every penny raised from book sales is made possible thanks to the generosity of publisher, printer, artist and photographer - all who kindly waived, or greatly reduced, their normal fees/costs to help me as much as possible. 

"Behind the Smile" is my fourth book (my second book of poetry and verse). Poetry has been my catharsis for as long as I can remember. I write about the joys of love, living, hope and optimism as well as about the depths and disorientation of mourning. A Times reviewer wrote that my poems are “a compelling collection that examine human consciousness from birth to dementia”. Perhaps they are right - life and death; grief and hope; fear and elation - these seeming opposites are made of much the same stuff, at least through my eyes.

As a poet there is no greater compliment than someone wanting to share in the emotions that you feel, whether they be highs or lows and especially if depression has touched their life and they are working towards healing and growth. If through your donation we can make them feel less stigmatised and alone then it is reward enough for any poet....and hopefully for you as well. 

I have been helped greatly in promoting my book by Olympic silver medallist and double Commonwealth gold medallist (and TV personality)  Sharron Davies MBE, actor David Suchet CBE, and actor/TV personality Stephen Fry who all tweeted their followers on my behalf. I am very much indebted to them as is the charity.

Please feel free to donate any amount, however small, the charity will be most grateful. If you would like a copy of the book please donate at least £10 plus £1.54 P&P. (US $17 plus $10 P&P). If you would like the book signed/dedicated to anybody, then Palladian Books will contact me and arrange it before mailing to you. An ideal Anniversary, Birthday or Christmas  present to family member or friend while at the same time helping someone less fortunate than you!

I am hoping you will be as generous as you possibly can in order to help
me raise as much as possible for this worthy cause..

 Donating  through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. This is important because we need your mailing address to send you the book. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity. Many thanks. Stan