LOSS INSPIRES ‘LAPS FOR LIFE’
HAVING lost his uncle to suicide last year, Toowoomba man Andrew Bowden is taking to the pool to honour his memory.
Mr Bowden started the Laps for Life charity swim at Milne Bay Aquatics at the start of this month, and has already completed 4.8km of his 8km goal.
All money he raises will go towards suicide prevention.
“I miss him very much and still can’t imagine what was going on in his head for him to make that decision,” Mr Bowden said.
“My motivation in doing Laps for Life is to raise awareness for something that hits so close to home for me and my family as there is still more to be done for suicide prevention and mental health issues.
“I did the Walk for Awareness in 2019 to honour my mum and uncle who both suffered from mental health issues, and they both lost their battles.”
This isn’t the first challenge the 29-year-old has had to face, having grown up with learning difficulties.
Now working at Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions Toowoomba, he credits a strong work-life balance for helping him through his own struggles.
“I am now in Endeavour Foundation’s warehouse as a production assistant and work with a great team,” said Mr Bowden,
“My employment coaches and site manager have been there to help when I’m down.
“In my spare time, I hang out with my mate Daniel from work, go bowling on a Saturday and I visit my nieces and nephews, who I love a lot.”
Endeavour Foundation site manager Matthew Fraser said his team was proud of Mr Bowden.
“Life has thrown more challenges Andrew’s way than most of us will ever have to face, but he’s got the drive, the determination and the support to overcome them,” Mr Fraser said.
“The world would be a much better place if there were more people like Andrew in it.”
Mr Bowden said there was nothing wrong with feeling down and seeking help from others.
“If you or someone you know is struggling, the best thing to do is to just be there for them and let them know it’s OK not to be OK,” Mr Bowden said.
“If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health issues please seek help by calling Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.”