My Walk
My Progress
9km
My Target
9km
Walking for mental health
Ironically, her funeral will be held just a day after World Suicide Awareness Day this year.
My partner and I are literally on the opposite side of the world, and cannot attend Elina's funeral overseas - but we are trying to turn our sorrow into action, by doing this walk.
Elina was a warrior - she was beautiful, strong, talented, opinionated and held a unique world view. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, even if what she thought would have been considered niche, or different, or to break some sort of societal norms. She was an inspirational character.
And probably that is why, her passing has left such a huge hole in our souls, and in our community.
Elina wasn't afraid to talk about her struggles with mental health. It breaks me, knowing that these words are all a little too late. All I wanted was for her to understand during her lifetime, how much she means to people. All I wanted, was to see her thrive.
And probably that is why, her passing has left such a huge hole in our souls, and in our community.
Elina wasn't afraid to talk about her struggles with mental health. It breaks me, knowing that these words are all a little too late. All I wanted was for her to understand during her lifetime, how much she means to people. All I wanted, was to see her thrive.
What makes it harder for me personally, is that I had known Elina for around 20 years. She was a part of my life in multiple stages, and she'd seen multiple versions of me just as I'd seen multiple versions of her. And always, always, we weaved in and out of each other's lives - sometimes intersecting for periods of time, sometimes going on our own separate journeys.
But always there.
Always just one phone call away.
Nothing will ever bring our Elina back - but maybe we can make a change in the life of another mental health warrior.
I am no stranger to dark thoughts myself, and have been struggling with my mental health for most of my life. So I get it. I know how it feels.
And what has literally pulled me out of some of my darkest moments, has been making a change in someone else's life.
I have made myself useful.
Offered a helping hand.
Studied a degree in social services.
Volunteered.
And step by step, little by little, life starts gaining meaning again - if not for myself, at least I'm making a change in someone else's life. And that, by itself, is the meaning.
So, with this walk, I want to take literally one step at a time towards a future where nobody needs to face their demons alone. For me personally, this walk is to commemorate Elina's passing - if me taking these physical steps and sharing this story inspires anyone to donate for a better future, good.
If not, thanks for reading.
Maybe, join me for the walk instead?
Love is the law <3
Make an impact
Just $39 will enable Lifeline to answer a call to connect and bring hope to 1 person in crisis.
With your support, we can ensure that no person has to face their darkest moments alone.
