Fundraising walk to take place in memory of lifelong Chesterfield fan who took his own life
and live on Freeview channel 276
Matt Wheeldon was an avid Spireite who regularly attended matches both home and away with his family, particularly enjoying a matchday pint with his dad Steve and brother Daniel.
When Covid-19 struck, the young football fan watched the live streams while on the phone to his dad and brother so they could still watch the games together.
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Hide AdDescribed by his friends and family as a loyal, caring, intelligent, helpful, cheeky and admirable young man, he tragically took his own life in January aged just 30.
Carla, who was a close family friend of Matt, said: “It’s been devastating to see the effects on Matt’s family and friends.
“If we can complete the walk whilst raising money, this will give us peace of mind knowing we could potentially save another person’s life and prevent their family and friends going through this terrible ordeal.
“We appreciate anyone who can donate in memory of Matt. No matter how big or small the donation, it will make a huge difference.”
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Hide Ad‘March for Matt’ is due to begin in the coastal village of St Bees, in Cumbria, and finish in Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, and will take place between July 24 and August 6.
Covering a stretch of almost 200 miles, Matt’s family hope this will create a safe space for anyone who joins – whether from start to finish or even just a day – while allowing them to take in some of the beautiful scenery that England has to offer.
While the walk is in memory of Matt, it is also in support of anyone else who may be struggling and aims to increase awareness of mental health and prompt as many people as possible to open up about how they are feeling inside.
All funds raised will got to Papyrus, a UK charity which works to prevent suicide in the under 35s – the biggest killer of people who fall within this age bracket in the country.
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Hide AdA JustGiving page has been set up ahead of the march, with a target of raising £7,500, nearly half of which has been raised so far.
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/daniel-wheeldon.