My dad, Paul Griffiths, was a creative, funny and caring being. In 2015 he became unwell with depression and became one of the 1 in 4 people who experience mental illness. The rapid decline in his mental health led to his admission to hospital, our family hoped that he would get well again but on September 29th 2015 the pain of living became greater than the fear of dying and my lovely dad took his life. Mental health problems can affect anyone - he was a person renowned for his cheeky smile, kind soul and ability to make anybody laugh.
I would hope that my dad is remembered for the remarkable man that he was, and in his memory, I would like to do a skydive for a charity which was close to his heart.
TWIGS community gardens (Therapeutic Work in Gardening Swindon) is a charity providing support for people who experience mental health problems, enabling people to access a space which allows individuals to learn new skills and regain confidence. Members and volunteers participate in activities amongst the gardens, craft studio, polytunnels and woodwork workshop. The positive effect of engaging with nature and communicating with others, means that TWIGS has over the years become a meaningful aspect of so many people’s lives and recovery. TWIGS creates a positive and healing environment which works to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress and depression.
Volunteering for TWIGS, I saw first-hand just how the community project was an escape from the outside pressures of our world. I would like to support a local project like TWIGS by raising much needed funds, so they can continue their wonderful services.
All funds raised will be going directly to TWIGS as I will be funding the skydive myself, which will be on the 28th of June!
