By Dionne Meehan
TWO cousins from Ramelton are preparing to partake in a sky dive in aid of Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland on July 20.
Wanting to raise funds ahead of their thrilling experience, Ciara and Chantelle Murray have organised a fundraising Night at the Races in Lennon Lodge, Ramelton this Saturday, June 15.
Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland have been providing free mental health and suicide prevention education and training services to schools and colleges around Ireland for the past 10 years.
And with both of the girls working closely with children, they see the prevalence of mental health on a daily basis.
“Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland offers education and training programs that deal with the topic of mental health and we felt as though their work has become more and more valuable as the issues around mental health amongst young people seems to be growing,” Ciara said.
“Education and awareness can have such a positive impact on issues surrounding mental health as it allows people to know that if they are suffering they are not alone and that there is people and professionals out there that can help.
“I think by educating the younger generation it also eliminates the stigma that is surrounding mental health,” she said.
Despite being cool, calm and collected at the minute, Ciara said as the skydive moves closer; she will without a doubt be terrified.
“To be honest, I don’t think we will actually believe we are jumping out of a plane until we’re in the air,” she said.
At the event on Saturday night, those in attendance can buy a horse or make a bet for each race.
“We have also been sponsored some lovely prizes for a draw so there will be tickets for that available on the night as well,” Ciara said.
“Outside the event, people can make donations to our campaign by texting YSPI LCD13174 to 50300 to make a direct €4 donation,” she concluded.
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