Islanders are being invited to take part in yellow fundraising run in memory of Jersey teacher who lost her life to suicide.
The sixth annual ‘Run for Cass’ event is taking place next month to raise money and awareness for suicide prevention in memory of islander Cassie Porter.
Taking place on Sunday 8 March at 10am, the event will see participants run or walk from La Frégate to St Aubin and back.
The event honours Cassie Porter, a former Year 1 teacher at Rouge Bouillon School, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 29 following struggles with her mental health.
This year’s run is being held just a few days after what would have been her 35th birthday.
Participants are encouraged to wear yellow on the day – inspired by Cassie’s favourite colour and flower, the sunflower.
Cassie’s friend Tom Stead, who organised the event, said: “Each year, on Cass’s birthday, we hold ‘Run for Cass’ to remember her, celebrate her life and continue the kindness she showed to others.
“Cass was a much loved primary school teacher with a huge heart. She cared deeply about her pupils, her colleagues and the wider community, and she was incredibly proud of the work she did.”
This year’s fundraising aim is £1,000, which is to be shared between Caring Cooks and Rouge Bouillon School.
In the past six years, Run for Cass has raised more than £40,000 for local charities and organisations – including Brighter Futures, Jersey Child Care Trust and Thrive Jersey.
Funds raised in Cassie’s memory have also contributed towards the installation of a ‘Friendship Bench’ and the creation of an outdoor area featuring an eco-mural at Rouge Bouillon School – a project she helped shape during her time as the school’s eco teacher.