Climbing for a cause “R U OK?”

Recently, I was joined by fellow workmates, Alexandra Hamlyn (Litigation Solicitor) and Allison Masal (Family Law para-legal), together with Macleay and Katie to climb and conquer Mt Warning, a 9km round trip which took just over 4 hours and approximately 17,000 steps.  This was in place of a Conquer Kozi (Mt Koziosko) climb which was cancelled due to the bushfires and less than expected numbers.

The challenge to climb was all for a good cause to raise funds and awareness for the organisation, R U OK?, who are bringing awareness to mental health in an effort to prevent suicide.  They want to encourage us all to start meaningful conversations between family, friends and colleagues to see if we are really okay – “A conversation can change a life”

They emphasise that you don’t need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener with four easy steps:

1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in

This very important cause is something close to my heart.  I climbed in honour of my brother, Bryan, who devastatingly took his own life 20 years ago this March, and whose loss is still as painful today for myself, his children and my family.

One of my proudest moments was asking a friend “R U OK?” and being there to listen and offer support when I was told they were not. I feel like that simple yet important question was an instrumental part in helping my friend know it was okay to ask for help and made a difference to their life.

I am incredibly grateful and wish to thank Alex, Allison, Macleay and Katie for supporting me and my quest to raise funds and awareness for R U OK? and importantly, preventing suicide.

If you would like to find out more information please visit R U OK? or to donate.

Life is precious and your life is everything to you, your family and friends!

Suzanne Falzon is a Litigation para-legal at McLaughlin’s Lawyers where she has worked for almost 23 years. Suz enjoys spending time with her friends and family and supporting her two boys by cheering them on from the sideline at Rugby League, Oztag and AFL games.

 

Author: Suzanne Falzon

Date: 24 March 2020