Derry girl writes original song to raise funds for mental health charities in the city

Ellie Rose Henry from Derry/Donegal, recently penned an original song about mental health, suicide prevention and addiction to try and help people who are suffering from mental health issues and raise awareness. 

The fifteen year old wants to reach out and let all generations know they are not alone and there is help and support available from many fantastic charities in the region.

The talented youngster has set up a GoFundme page to raise funds for local charities Foyle-Search And Rescue, Hurt, Zest, ARC, Samaritans, Lifeline, Me4Mental, CCIS Extern and PIPS.

Ellie said: "I've chosen to support these charities due to the huge amount of work they do in the city, saving the lives of people and families.

"I would be most grateful for any donation towards these charities, no matter how big or small. 

"It can make a big difference to these non-funded organisations that do a lot of work regarding mental health, sucicide prevention and addiction. 

"I hope my song and video can help raise awareness and relate to others suffering to let them know they are not alone and help is always there.

"I feel very passionate and I think our cities need rehabilitation centres and more help as people have to go through a waiting list.

"By the time they receive help, it could be too late for help. It's not just the people suffering, it's families and their loved ones too.

"I think these facilities should have funding as families struggle to pay fees for help for their loved ones."
 
Ellie has contacted many advocates of mental health in the city and they all were eager to help her cause.

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Graham Warke, Serena Terry a.k.a Mammy Banter and Founder of Waves for Mental Health and local hero, Danny Quigley are amongst those supporting Ellie's cause.

Founder of ARC Addiction Recovery, Gary Rutherford, Thomas Bradley, advocate for CCIS Extern, Founder of ' Memory of Me' podcast, Bronagh Burke and the city's very own Micky Doherty are also supporting Ellie. 

Ellie added: "I also want to thank the amazing Eamonn Karran, my amazing producer and videographer who is a good friend and someone I look up to. He's just an absolute genius, his work speaks for itself.

"I am very grateful to everyone for their support, including my family and my Mammy and Daddy for always believing in me."

You can listen to Ellie's amazing song and support Ellie and her fundraising efforts at: https://gofund.me/75a7cbba