I have thought long and hard about which charity to run for, whilst still keeping a link to Kate.
I could have gone for a cancer charity or hospice, but that is no good to Kate now.
I'll continue to support those charities in my own way, but in asking for other people to sponsor me, I thought I would go for something more personal.
The ripples of losing a much loved parent can be felt for years afterwards. Especially when hormones kick in, the world becomes a confusing place, friendships change and you don't have your Mum there to at least say "I've been through those teens too"
'Off the Record' have provided an amazing councelling service to our family, that the NHS weren't resourced to provide. They have helped us get through some pretty tough times and I have no doubt, that I may have to use their services again. At least next time, we will know quickly who the girls can talk to and get things in place.
I know the councelling sessions can take months or even years to have an effect. But i would often see a range of kids leaving their sessions, lifted by what ever they had talked about behind closed doors. 'Off the Record' meaning just that. Just private chats. Watching them walk out, ready to face the world a little stronger.
As a northern bloke, I have often had the 'just man up' attitude and refused to talk about feelings etc. Indirectly, I have learnt a lot too about the power of talking and the amazing effect somebody listening and understanding can have.
These services are vital. The NHS are brilliant at what they do, but they aren't funded to help kids and teens get through all the emotional and mental challenges that are thrown at them.
