Kendal’s Izzy Murray is just over half way through her 192 mile Coast to Coast walk. She began the walk last week and has now trekked through two of the three National Parks en route. Izzy is walking the epic route to fundraise for  Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) Cumbria, in remembrance of her good friend Helena, whom she lost to suicide five years ago.

Each year, more than 6,000 people take their own lives across the UK: SOBS is a national charity which works to provide emotional support to those who have been left behind. SOBS Cumbria support groups meet once a month, with groups in North, South and West Cumbria. SOBS Cumbria also has a local 24/7 helpline and a closed Facebook group.

Along the way, Izzy is being joined by friends and family members every day and was joined by Ed, the family dog, who is doing a great job in keeping Izzy company (even if he does keep running off to dive into every stream he sees). “It’s nice to have different people join me along the way, it makes the walk easier and more enjoyable; the support I’m receiving from friends, family and fellow walkers is very encouraging”.

Alongside the familiar faces of her friends and family, Izzy is meeting plenty of new people, too. The Autumn months are when the Coast to Coast sees a rise in popularity; “it’s good to be making connections with other walkers, as it’s reassuring that, when we do see a familiar face, we know that we’re not lost!”

Izzy is over the moon with the funds she has raised so far, “along the way, we’re staying in hostels; other Coast to Coast walkers who are staying in the hostels are asking what we’re doing; some have given us a donation to go towards our efforts.”

Support the team

Izzy has raised £1,100 for SOBS Cumbria so far. You can show your support by making a contribution to her JustGiving page Alternatively, you can donate £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 directly to SOBS Cumbria by texting 'SOBS00 £[insert amount]' to 70070; you can choose a different method of donation here.

Support for people touched by suicide

If you are struggling with the death of someone who has taken their own life and need someone to listen to your experience and offer you support, please do get in touch. You can call the SOBS Cumbria 24/7 helpline on 07572 975 721 (John) or 07896 703 757 (Karan). You can also email us at hello@sobs-cumbria.org.uk, or you can visit us on Facebook and Twitter at @SOBSCumbria