Celebrating the life of a “selfless and fun-loving” mum
Lauren Appleyard hosted a fundraising party to honour her mum, Sue, who heartbreakingly died by suicide last December after struggling with symptoms of perimenopause.
Content warning – this post discusses suicide.
The special event, which included performances by talented local musicians, raised £2,814 – doubled by Big Give to £5,628 – for The Menopause Charity.
Lauren also shared our trusted information about perimenopause and menopause and the support that’s available.
She said: “If we’d known about the symptoms of perimenopause, we may have realised sooner that it could have been an underlying reason for my mam’s illness and been able to get her the correct help and treatment. We chose to support The Menopause Charity as we believe very strongly in what they do. We want to help raise awareness of the impact perimenopause can have on physical and mental health.”
Sue was a clinical care assistant in the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS). She had previously worked in the emergency operations centre and had been with the Service for 22 years. You can read more about Lauren’s memories of her mum here.
Lauren said the amazing turnout at the party was a credit to Sue, who she describes as “the most selfless person”.
“The money we raised from the party was such a rewarding outcome. But the most important thing is how many women have already reached out to tell me that the night has got them to think [about perimenopause], and some have even gone to get help from a GP.”
Jenny Haskey, CEO of The Menopause Charity, said: “We’re so grateful to Lauren, her family and friends for choosing to support The Menopause Charity as they celebrated Sue’s life. The funds raised will ensure we can reach more people with our trusted information and support to reduce the suffering.
Jenny Haskey, CEO of the charity says: “Menopause has been kept in the shadows for far too long, wrapped in taboo and stigma. It’s fantastic to see the conversation opening up, but we know many still feel left out. That’s why we’re thrilled to be part of this bold and inspiring national campaign! At The Menopause Charity, we believe everyone should be able to access trustworthy information and feel seen, heard, and included—because there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to menopause.”
Lauren wanted to thank Molly Gallagher, Sue’s crew mate at NEAS, for helping to organise the fundraising night. All the performers—including Andy Bell and his daughter Evie, Kev Gilmore and his band, and Tia Daniels—together helped create a special atmosphere to celebrate Sue’s life.
Menopause and mental health – getting help
Everybody experiences menopause differently, and for some people, it can affect their mental wellbeing. Low mood and feelings of anxiety and depression are common symptoms. Some people can have very negative and intrusive thoughts that lead them to contemplate suicide.
If you feel suicidal or on the edge, the following organisations are here to help you get through that frightening moment and make more sense of your current situation.
Support for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM):Â call 0800 58 58 58
Samaritans: call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: call 0800 689 5652
SHOUT: text on 85258
Read our trusted information on what can help with menopause and mental health.
Join the Dots: A – Z menopause symptoms
Many people struggle to recognise the signs and symptoms of menopause. Check out our A – Z of menopause symptoms to find out more.
Don’t forget to download our Symptom Checker to help you and your healthcare professional manage your symptoms.