MEDIA: Lifeline fundraiser marks anniversary of suicides

20 years ago, Alannah McGregor lost two of her children to suicide one month apart. 

"The impact from workplace bullying affected my son, and the ongoing impact of that affected all of us to the point that my daughter took her life," she told ABC news. Her son then lost his battle with mental health just weeks later.

But Alannah is turning her tragedy into action. This month, she created a mycause fundraising page to honour the memory of her two children. Funds donated will go towards her local Lifeline centre, Lifeline Central Victoria and Mallee.

Alanna has been very active in talking out about and helping others affected by suicide. For years, she has been working on various suicide awareness and prevention initiatives. Her work has been recognised by the local and wider community, earning her awards and accolades.

In the ABC News article, Alannah describes the feeling of “relief” that all her work towards suicide prevention brings her.

"Once I realised what I was going to do, the weight was lifted off my shoulders." 

Alannah started her mycause fundraising page “In Memory of Angela and Stuart” a few days before the anniversary of her daughter's death on the 2nd of August. She aimed to raise $500. Within two weeks, however, her fundraiser has already collected over $3,000. 

The campaign will close just after the anniversary of her son’s death – 3 September. If you’d like to donate, click here.

Check out other inspiring pages where people commemorate their loved ones, including their friends, family and colleagues, or start your fundraising page by clicking the button below.