Jodee Shead is taking part in Laps for Life.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Echuca local Jodee Shead has swum more than 600 laps so far this month in an effort to raise awareness around mental health.
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Laps for Life is an initiative run by ReachOut, an organisation that helps connect young people with mental health services.
During March, participants take to the water, whether it’s the pool or the beach, and swim as many laps as they can.
When she took up the Laps for Life challenge at the start of the month, Mrs Shead set a humble goal of $200, but she has now raised over $1000.
Mrs Shead said she wanted to take part because the cause hit close to home.
“Why I’m doing it is because three out of five kids have mental illnesses, so the chances of someone knowing someone is almost 100 per cent,” she said.
“The more people accept that mental illness is an illness, not just ‘someone is crazy’, the less people will suicide.
“I’m very open about my life so I can help other people, I’ve been on anti-depressants since I was 30 and ... over my life, I’ve probably had about 12 friends that have suicided.”
Jodee Shead has been averaging 40 laps per session.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
Despite a neck injury and only taking up swimming last November, Mrs Shead has been averaging 40 laps per session in the Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre’s 50m pool.
In the past two weeks, however, she has been smashing her average and achieving 50 laps in most sessions.
Mrs Shead said that through the fundraiser, she wanted people to know there was help out there.
“I just want to raise awareness ... people are not alone, there are people out there willing to listen and willing to talk,” she said.
“I hope they let their stories be known too because their stories may help someone else.”
Jodee Shead has increased her fundraising target.
Photo by
Lua Ikenasio
With the money Mrs Shead has raised so far, ReachOut can provide help to over 250 Australians.
After the unexpected support from the local community, Mrs Shead has also raised her goal to $2500.
If you know someone who is struggling, there are many services available, including Lifeline on 131 114 or visit lifeline.org.au or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
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