Local couple Lyndsay Walker and Vicki Mendyk are hoping to change as many lives as possible… one step at a time.
The pair, who created the mental health platform UMatter, is hosting the third annual Suicide Awareness Memorial Walk at Maitland Park this week.
They, along with countless others, will undertake the 12-hour trek from 8pm on Friday 21 February until 8am on Saturday 22 February.
It’s a far cry from Lyndsay’s epic effort two years ago when he spent double that time walking up and down the arduous Strzelecki Hill in Newcastle.
“I did that on my own, so to speak,” he said.
“But, this is the event where everyone can join in.
“I’m really looking forward to it.
“We’re partnering up with Wesley Mission, East Maitland Rotary will bring their food truck and it’s now gaining a lot of attention after three years.
“I have always been an advocate for mental health just purely in my own life, especially after my marriage breakdown.
“I’m now with Vicki, who’s also experienced heartbreak.
“She lost her husband (Peter) in 2017 and then her 19-year-old daughter (Chelsea) five months later, both to suicide, so she has a very powerful story to tell… it’s raw and sad.
“However, her pain can benefit someone else.
“And, for Vicki, speaking about it can be cathartic, too.
“UMatter is about creating memories, loss and legacy… but it’s also about hope and optimism.
“When we staged the inaugural Suicide Awareness Memorial Walk, it was 67 kilometres, the combined age of what Peter and Chelsea were when they took their lives.
“That transferred to 12 hours.
“We’re determined to keep their memories alive while trying to prevent more families from experiencing what Vicki’s gone through.
“So, if we can share our stories – and raise awareness – that might help others.
“Hopefully, we’ll entice people to have the conversation about how they’re feeling, too.
“On the night, you can walk the whole 12 hours, or part of it; bring the dog and join in; and there’s wheelchair access as well.
“We’ll also have experts on hand to talk to, especially if someone’s struggling.
“It’s important for people to know they’re not alone.”
Participants will meet at the Maitland Park barbecue area, behind the pool, from 6.30pm.
“We’ll have a Welcome to Country and sausage sizzle to kick it all off, plus Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison and mayor Philip Penfold have indicated they’ll be in attendance,” Lyndsay said.
“We’re trying to make it a family-friendly affair and as inclusive as possible.
“And, while it’s primarily about raising awareness, we’ve organised an online raffle as well, with the proceeds going towards suicide prevention networks and other initiatives in the region.
“People need to look after themselves all the time… and actively invest in their physical and mental health to stay healthy.
“But, you’re only one decision away from turning your life around.
“So, having a conversation and being active are two things I certainly recommend.”
Interested people can follow UMatter on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/umatter_awareness
For more community stories:
- Hunter partnership to supercharge heart health impact
- New grants combat senior loneliness
- Newcastle uni developing program to keep teen girls in sport
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
