March for Matt organised

Raising money for the mental health charity Papyrus, March for Matt is a walk which is being organised in memory of Matthew Wheeldon, a lifelong Spireite who passed away earlier this year.

Matt was an avid Spireite who regularly attended matches both home and away with his family, particularly enjoying a matchday pint with his dad Steve and brother Daniel. When COVID-19 struck, Matt watched the live streams while on the phone to his dad and brother, so they could still watch the games together. 

Described by his friends and family as a loyal, caring, intelligent, helpful, cheeky and admirable young man, Matt tragically took his own life in January. Carla, who was a close family friend of Matt, said: “It’s been devastating to see the effects on Matt’s family and friends. 

“If we can complete the walk whilst raising money, this will give us peace of mind knowing we could potentially save another person’s life and prevent their family and friends going through this terrible ordeal. 

“We appreciate anyone who can donate in memory of Matt. No matter how big or small the donation, it will make a huge difference.”

The march will take place between July 24 and August 6 and cover almost 200 miles, beginning at the sea cliffs of St Bees and finishing in the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay on the East coast. Anyone is welcome to join the walk, from start to finish, or even just for the day. 

Matt’s family are aiming to create a safe space for anyone whilst taking in some of the most beautiful scenery that England has to offer.

While the walk is in memory of Matthew, it is also in support of anyone else who may be struggling, aiming to increase awareness of mental health and prompt as many people as possible to open up about how they are feeling inside.

In 2019, there were 5,691 suicides registered in England and Wales, with suicide being the biggest killer of under 35s in the UK. Mental health is as important as your physical health, and in recent years awareness around mental health has significantly grown. However, there is still plenty of work to do. 

Mental health charities such as Papyrus do an incredible amount of work to prevent suicide and all money raised from this event will go towards this incredible charity.

A ‘JustGiving’ page has been set up ahead of the march, which aims to raise up to £7,500. You can donate by clicking on the link below.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/daniel-wheeldon?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=daniel-wheeldon&utm_campaign=pfp-whatsapp&utm_term=260794d5325d4fa3b48ee59f981eac99

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay.

Mental Health Helplines

HOPELINE UK – 0800 068 4141

Samaritans – 116 123

Mind – 0300 123 3393

The Calm Zone – 0800 58 58 58

Remember, you can even call the emergency services on 999.