In the UK in 2013, there were 6223 recorded suicides. 6223, let’s just let that sink in. 6223 families left to cope with a devastating loss, 6223 families thinking ‘could I have done more?’, 6223 perspective’s on life changed forever. 

There is no physical test to find out if someone is having suicidal thoughts. There’s no x-ray to detect a broken sense of self. There is no way of taking blood to detect suicidal intentions. No CT scan to see exactly what someone is thinking. And for families, this is devastating. It is our natural human instinct to protect, to fix things, to make things better. And for families who have experienced a loss to suicide this is magnified, an overwhelming sense of guilt for not preventing a suicide, even if this is impossible, can wash over them, drowning them in a sea of despair and agony at the thought that their loved one is never coming back.

Pete’s Dragons is a wonderful charity that ensure that those in the aforementioned sea of despair are provided with a lifeboat, support in the time when they need it most. With many of their volunteers working through personal experiences, Pete’s Dragons know that although psychological and therapeutic support is often best left to professionals, smaller and practical ways of helping out can move mountains. Comforting hampers, financial assistance and seaside holiday retreats are just a handful of ways that this incredible charity ensure that those who are experiencing a loss to suicide are appropriately supported in a difficult time.

That’s why, with your help, I want to raise £1000 so that Pete’s Dragons can carry on with this incredible work. My first venture will be my 52nd birthday party, if you cannot come I will of course be sad, however hope that you will use this page to donate to this amazing charity. Whether it is £1 or £10,000, every penny makes a difference.

I thank you in advance for your valued support.

Stu xx

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