My Reason, My Story.

Hi! My name is Tamsyn and this September I will be walking 63 kilometres to raise awareness and funds for those who struggle.

When I was 12 I didn't think I would make it to 13, let alone 16 years old today. I'm four months short of my birthday which I didn't think I could be here to achieve this milestone. I'm driving! As a struggling teenage who has been in those dark moments I didn't think I could be able to do this.

At the age of 15 I was finally diagnosed with OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), I have lived most of my life with this mental disorder without realising it. Along side that I live my every day with depression and anxiety, just like the 64% of teenagers. My OCD and depression has ruined my routine in getting up in the morning, going to school, doing my homework, going to my job and even going to bed. My every day life is affected.

Unfortunately, this is the reality for many Australian teenagers, adults and sometimes even children. I've turned to Lifeline on my hardest nights, and that two hour phone call had saved my life. And maybe if i raise this money and walk with a smile I could help save hundreds of others.

I made my first call to Lifeline at 12, they receive over 1 million contacts from people in crisis each year. I couldn't be sitting here, writing this without them today. 

For World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept 10), I will be taking part in Out of the Shadows and walking for the 9 people lost to suicide every day.

I'm walking to raise funds for Lifeline to provide suicide prevention services and support for Australians in need.

Yes, it is hard getting out of bed. Yes, I still struggle day to day. Yes, I am still a human being who belongs here just like you. 

My name is Tamsyn Knight, I am a 16 year old girl who struggles every day, and I will be participating in this year's 63km walk for the 41,000 (appox) Australian teenagers who struggle and attempt suicide each year, and of course the other beautifully important adults and children who take there lives every year.