Melanie Jorgensen is starting the conversation.
She is making it her mission to encourage talk around mental health, after losing her 15-year-old son Lachlan to suicide in October 2017.
Described as “a lover of all things sport”, Lachlan was a national 400-metre sprinter and talented footballer who had battled depression and anxiety for more than 12 months before taking his own life.
As a way to cope with her grief, Melanie began Laps for Lachy last year, an initiative to open up conversations about suicide and mental health while walking, cycling or running laps – something Lachlan loved.
“I don’t want this to happen to someone else’s Lachy,” Melanie said.
“The event really aims to raise awareness. The more we talk about it, the more we make it a ‘normal’ conversation and make it easier for people to reach out for help.
“Be kind because you never know what people are going through. A small conversation can save someone’s life.”
The initiative will continue this year, with a target of $10,000 for Trentham-based wellness program Path of the Horse to provide young people with equine therapy sessions.
Riddells Creek, Macedon and Woodend football clubs and Riddle Raptors basketballers have banded together to join the cause along with many families and individuals in the community. People can sign up as a team or as an individual.
The day will include a HALT tradies brekkie by gold coin donation and range of guest speakers.
People are also invited to make donations to the Gisborne Foodbank’s Christmas hampers to help those in need.
Laps for Lachy will be held on Sunday, December 1 at Tony Clarke Reserve from 10am to 2pm.
For details, to donate, or to sign up, visit: au.gofundme.com/f/laps-for-lachy-for-path-of-the-horse-ltd
If you or anyone you know needs help contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
