Running to beat the blues
More than 70 Gippslanders laced up their runners and took on Run Melbourne recently to raise much needed money and awareness in support of people impacted by mental illness.
Representing one of the largest teams at this year’s event, Beat the Blues Gippsland is led by Louise Clark.
Louise established the group in memory of her brother Derek Milner, who lost his battle with depression 11 years ago.
Louise has watched the team evolve over the past six years with many families making the journey to Melbourne to run and walk either 21km, 10km or 5km.
“Watching the children in the team creating awareness about mental health and removing the stigma associated with depression and anxiety is something Gippsland should be proud of,” Louise said.
Louise believes Beat the Blues Gippsland has the power to save lives and make a huge difference in how the community perceives this disease.
“Too many people are affected by mental illness and far too many lose their lives to suicide. As a community we need to remove the stigma associated with mental health issues and this is what we are doing with Beat the Blues Gippsland,” she said.
Beat the Blues Gippsland donates all funds raised to charity and after a raising $13,523.73 this year, has now amassed more than $70,000 donated to two charities; Beyond Blue and Mindful Aus, run by local Matt Runnalls.
Louise and the Beat the Blues Gippsland team acknowledged the community for its support, especially its many sponsors.