Shari McKenna

For years, mental health has been a deeply personal part of my life. I’ve rarely spoken openly about my experiences, mostly because of the fear of judgement and stigma that can surround mental health. However, at just 18 years old, I survived something that, at the time, no one thought I would. Since then, I have worked incredibly hard to keep pushing forward, to better understand myself, and to continue working on my mental health and my life. The journey hasn’t always been easy. There have been many moments where simply continuing has taken more strength than I thought I had. But I’m still here, and I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come. I’ve learned that looking after your mental health is not a sign of weakness, it takes courage to ask for help, to keep working on yourself, and to choose to keep going even when it feels like you have no fight left in you. Sadly, I have also experienced the heartbreak of losing people I loved and cared for, to suicide. Those losses have stayed with me and have made me even more determined to help create change. No one should feel so alone or hopeless that they believe there is no other option. This particular fundraiser is obviously of huge importance to me. I’m taking part not only for those I have lost, but also for the person I was at 18, for the person I am today, and for anyone who may be struggling silently. If sharing my story, raising awareness, or helping someone feel a little less alone can make even a small difference, then it is worth it. We need to create a future where people feel safe enough to speak openly about their mental health and know that they are not alone.