Back for its 11^th year, the annual Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Charity Cycle will take place on Easter Sunday, April 5th. 

Cllr. Liam Brazil is encouraging the people of Waterford to get involved in this year’s event. A long-time advocate for positive mental health, Cllr. Brazil is one of the founders of the initiative and has spent more than a decade organising events to raise awareness around mental health and suicide.

“Ireland loses on average 500 people each year to suicide.  It’s a harrowing statistic, however the reality is that these people are not just numbers. They are sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, partners, parents and friends.  There are also hundreds of people who may never act on suicidal thoughts but live with the distress of contemplating suicide or struggling with their mental health. That pain can be profound and often goes unseen.”

  For Cllr. Brazil, the charity cycle was founded on a simple idea; to help create a more open, inclusive and understanding society where people feel comfortable speaking about mental health with honesty and compassion. “Sometimes it’s the simple things that can make the biggest difference. Getting out for a cycle in the countryside, spending time together and opening up about mental health can have a hugely positive effect. That’s what this event is about. It’s about bringing people together, starting conversations and reminding everyone that they are not alone.”

The Mental Health and Suicide Awareness Cyle starts from Crotty’s Inn carpark in Lemybrien on Sunday, April 5^th and the route will wend its way through the picturesque villages of Kilmacthomas, Kilmeaden, Kill, Bunmahon and Durrow.

Entry is €25 per person, and registration is from 8am with the cycle starting at 9am.  There is the option of a 50k or 30k cycle, so whatever your ability or fitness levels, it’s a fun, healthy way to support a worthy cause.

To register or to donate visit https://eventmaster.ie/event/A75dujlIlv

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