Paige helps save lives stateside

We at the Echo get great satisfaction when one of our stories can actually play a part in helping others, especially people thousands of miles away.

So it was pleasing to find out that our article on inspirational Paige Hunter attaching messages of hope to the Wearmouth Bridge, urging those in need to think about a better future, has been followed across the world.

The 18-year-old health and social care student pinned 240 different messages on the bridge after being moved to act from her own experiences of dealing with different times.

“People helped me and if it wasn’t for them, I might not be here and I thought about if I could do the same for others by writing messages to help them,” she told us.

Late last month she was given a commendation by Northumbria Police in recognition of her actions.

Now after hearing about ourstoryonPaige,kind-hearted people have picked up on the idea 5,000 miles away in California.

Locals in Auburn have pinned notes of hope to walkways on the Foresthill Bridge over the North Fork river. The spot, in the foothills between Reno and San Francisco, is the fourth-highestbridgeinAmerica, and 87 people have taken their lives there since 1973.

Itishopedthenotes–some 240 messages attached by locals – will reach out to those feeling vulnerable, with handwritten lines including “No matter what, there is always a reason to smile,” “You areloved”and“HoldOn,Pain, Ends” tied to the railings.

Paige can hardly believe that her actions have struck a chordwithpeoplesofaraway.

“It’s absolutely amazing that people all over the world arenowwantingtoplacenotes of hope to bridges. I didn’t expect it to get as far as this but the fact it has is great.”

We hope Paige’s actions continue to inspire others to save lives.