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More than 100 people have already signed up for a celebrity-backed fundraising run organised by the friends of a 14-year old student who sadly took her own life earlier this year.
Year 10 students Saskia Ruddy, Tilly Welsh and Lily Barker have organised 'Run for Kezia', in memory of JCG student Kezia Mason, which will take place at the Waterfront on Saturday 10 September.
The run includes options to run 2k, 5k, or 10k and all money raised from the event will go towards supporting other young people struggling with their mental health.
As well as raising money, the organisers also hope that the run will help raise awareness of young people's mental health and let people know that it's important to speak out if they are struggling.
Video: Pixie Lott and Fatboy Slim are among the run's supporters.
Kezia's friends have put together a video to promote the charity run, which includes messages of support from celebrities including Pixie Lott and Fatboy Slim.
Saskia explained how the three friends decided to organise the Run for Kezia.
"We all knew that we wanted to hold an event in memory of Kezia, and decided to organise a run as we know that being active and outdoors is particularly good for people's mental health," she said.
"When we spoke up about our idea, people were so supportive at helping us make it a reality!"
Pictured: Kezia's brother hopes that donations in her memory will help the family set up something "that will benefit young people for a long time."
Earlier this year, Kezia’s brother, Ben, set up a JustGiving page with an aim of raising £1,500 for mental health charities or for a new charity to be set up in Kezia’s name.
In less than 24 hours, the fundraiser had generated tens of thousands of pounds in donations and Ben kept increasing the goal until he eventually raised over £100,000.
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Saskia explained that she knew from Ben's fundraiser that people would be supportive of the 'Run for Kezia', but it had been "shocking and amazing" to see just how much people cared.
With two months to go, 100 people have already signed up to take part in the run and that amount is growing every day.
Speaking on behalf of Kezia's friends, Saskia said that they "really appreciate all the support" that they have received and are looking forward to the run in September.
You can sign up to 'Run for Kezia' online via RaceNation.
Kooth - a safe online platform where young people can discuss their feelings with others. Users can also book sessions with counsellors via the platform. It can be accessed HERE and users should select 'Jersey Kooth' when they sign up.
YES project - The Youth Enquiry Service provides information, advice and counselling for 16-25 year-olds. Open 12:00 to 20:00 every day. Visit yes.je or telephone 0800 7350 010.
Samaritans - Call for free from any phone on 116 123.
Mind Jersey - www.mindjersey.org
'Help is at Hand' - The Government has put together a guide for individuals bereaved by suicide which includes information about how they might be feeling, what practical matters you're likely to have to deal with and suggestions on further support in the weeks and months ahead. Click HERE to read it.
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