Men go the Extra Mile for Peace and Mind Charity
In a heartwarming display of determination and compassion, two men, James Rooney and Mike Douglass, embarked on a challenging journey to raise funds for Peace and Mind UK. The duo, hailing from Birchwood Park, were moved by the tragic story of Esther Ghey, who founded the charity in memory of her daughter, Brianna. The men, both employees at Labdesk, decided to take on the daunting task of carrying heavy sandbags nearly 50 miles to support the cause.
Esther Ghey’s mission with Peace and Mind UK is a noble one, aiming to bring mindfulness training to schools across Warrington and the UK in an effort to spread a message of peace. The charity’s work is not only impactful but also deeply personal to Esther, who tragically lost her daughter to violence. In honor of Brianna’s memory, Esther has dedicated herself to creating positive change in the community through mindfulness and peace-building initiatives.
A Challenging Endeavor for a Worthy Cause
James and Mike, inspired by Esther’s dedication and the cause she champions, set themselves a lofty goal of carrying 30-kilogram weights over 30 kilometers to raise £2,000 for Peace and Mind UK. Despite the physical and mental challenges that lay ahead, the men were determined to push themselves to their limits in support of a cause that resonated deeply with them. Their commitment to the challenge was not just about the distance they would cover but also about the impact their fundraising efforts would have on the community.
Undeterred by the inclement weather brought on by Storm Lillian, James and Mike set out on their epic journey, fueled by their passion for the cause and the support of their colleagues and donors. The symbolism of carrying heavy sandbags over a long distance mirrored the weight of the challenges that individuals facing mental health issues often carry. Through their physical feat, the men hoped to shed light on the importance of mental well-being and the need for support and resources for those struggling with mental health issues.
A Triumph of Determination and Generosity
After an arduous 12 hours and 13 minutes, James and Mike not only achieved their initial goal of covering 30 kilometers with the heavy sandbags but exceeded it by nearly 50 kilometers in total. Their endurance and unwavering commitment to the cause earned them not only the admiration of their peers but also a staggering £2,460 in donations for Peace and Mind UK. The funds raised will support the charity’s upcoming Peace Festival, a community event aimed at providing a day of fun and relaxation for families in need of support and respite.
Esther Ghey expressed her profound gratitude to James and Mike, as well as to all those who contributed to their fundraising efforts. The impact of their generosity and dedication will be felt in the community, where the funds raised will make a tangible difference in promoting mental well-being and peace-building initiatives. The success of their fundraising endeavor serves as a testament to the power of individuals coming together to support a common cause and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
As James and Mike reflect on their challenging yet rewarding journey, they are filled with a sense of pride and fulfillment in knowing that their efforts have contributed to a cause greater than themselves. Their selflessness and determination have not only raised vital funds for Peace and Mind UK but also raised awareness about the importance of mental health support and mindfulness in building a more peaceful and compassionate society. Their extraordinary feat serves as an inspiration to others to take action and make a difference in the lives of those in need.