Lavey fundraisers take the leap for mental health, raising over £10,000 for AWARE NI

A group of 14 friends and family from Lavey has exceeded expectations with their fundraising efforts for AWARE NI through their participation in the charity’s annual Santa Abseil event down the Europa Hotel.

The team, led by Donal McGill, raised vital funds for the mental health charity that provides essential services to those living with poor mental health throughout Northern Ireland.

Donal, known as ‘Ducky’ to his friends, shared what motivated him to fundraise for AWARE NI.

ABOVE: Ducky's Danglers pictured before descending the Europa Hotel.

"A friend of mine is a volunteer facilitator for one of AWARE NI’s Support Groups, so I’ve heard first-hand about the incredible work they do in our local communities," he explained.

"They run 24 support groups across Northern Ireland, including groups in Derry, Limavady, and Magherafelt. These groups provide much-needed support to people living with poor mental health and work tirelessly to reduce the stigma around depression."

Ducky continued: "It’s difficult for someone who has never experienced poor mental health to understand it, which is why charities like AWARE NI are so important. They not only offer support to those struggling with mental health challenges but also run educational programmes in schools, colleges, universities, and local communities to raise awareness and break down barriers."

When the opportunity to take part in the Santa Abseil challenge came up, Ducky and his team were eager to get involved.

"As soon as I was asked if I wanted to take part, I immediately agreed. I then reached out to a few friends, and before I knew it, we were a team of 14," he said.

ABOVE: Donal 'Ducky' McGill pictured with Mary O'Kane.

Despite his previous experience with abseiling, Ducky admitted to feeling a little nervous.

"I’ve done an abseil before, but I was still a bit nervous. It helped when I saw how nervous some of the others were, though!" he laughed.

The team faced their fears and not only completed the challenge but exceeded their fundraising target by raising an incredible £10,730.25.

"It’s absolutely unbelievable!" Ducky exclaimed.

"The team really put in a lot of effort to raise as much money as possible for this fantastic charity. I’m so proud of everyone involved!"

He added, "We all know someone who is living with poor mental health. By raising money for AWARE NI, you’re helping fund a local support group where people will feel understood and supported.”

“One of the hardest things when dealing with depression is the fear of judgment from others who haven’t experienced it. That fear can make it incredibly difficult to open up. AWARE NI's support groups are run by people who have lived through mental health struggles themselves, and they can offer the kind of support that even close family members might not be able to."

ABOVE: Kelly O'Kane pictured taking part in the abseil.

Mary O'Kane, Corporate Partnership Officer at AWARE NI, expressed gratitude for the team’s efforts.

"We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and commitment shown by Donal’s team. The funds raised through the Santa Abseil will go a long way in supporting our network of peer-led support groups across Northern Ireland, ensuring that those who are struggling with mental health challenges can access the support they need. AWARE NI relies on donations and fundraising to continue our essential work, and we are so thankful for the support of Donal and his team."

The Santa Abseil event, where participants donned festive attire and Santa suits, was a huge success, raising significant funds for AWARE NI’s mental health services.

For more information about AWARE NI and how you can support their work, visit www.aware-ni.org.