Parents’ plea for runners to join Nathan tribute event
AFTER a successful first event last year, Visiter readers are being invited to take part in fundraising runs in memory of Nathan Wilson.
Nathan, 17, from Waterloo – one of identical twins – took his life on February 27, 2013, and parents Len and Gail are determined that his death will not be in vain.
They are campaigning to raise awareness and funds for Warringtonbased national charity Papyrus – Prevention of Young Suicide.
Nathan’s 10K and 5K runs will start at Crosby Leisure Centre in Mariners Road, Crosby, at 10am on Sunday September 9. The course is along the promenade and grassy paths. Runners are advised to get there by 9.30am.
Len Wilson said: “There will be plenty of goody bags for children with five local supermarkets donating items.
“And, as last year, we have raffles on the day. Prizes include a signed Liverpool FC shirt, a signed Everton FC football – and, donated to us directly, we have a signed Jamie Carragher shirt with a signed, framed photo of John Barnes.
“And Marine FC has donated a family ticket for a home game.
“There are trophies for the fastest three males and females for both the 10K and 5K.
“To enter, just Google ‘Leonard Wilson is fundraising for Papyrus’ and click on to the site. It is £10 to enter using this JustGiving page, and please state in the message box if you are running 10K or 5K. There is also a 5K walk, but, sorry, no trophies for this.”
Regarding the inaugural event, Len said: “It raised £6,040 online, with an additional £1,000 plus going directly to Papyrus. We had 78 runners and about 50-60 walkers.
“We also had about 60 spectators and 30 or so wonderful volunteers, of which Everton In The Community provided nine. They are all heroes.
“Suicide is a very serious subject – you could not get more serious – but just as last year we wish the day to be a fun day. ay
“And we want Nathan’s 10K/5K – and other events – to be the catalyst to take away the taboo and stigma of suicide. Let’s talk about it.
“A great many young suicides do not have a history of mental health. It needs to be discussed and tackled as a specific, prevalent and growing issue.”
Nathan’s parents believe that with betterfunded schools and mental health services, a bigger clampdown on bullying and a more open attitude to suicide and its causes, their son’s suicide – and the majorit majority of others – could have been prevented.
Nathan, they have said, could have been assessed for, and diagnosed with, Asperger’s syndrome – as his twin brother, Curtis, was, although this only happened after Nathan’s death.
If you would like more information you can contact Len on 07786150146 or email len. wilson54@gmail.com
For confidential information and support about young suicide call HOPELINEUK 0800 068 4141 or visit www. papyrus-uk.org