Every week, 1 in 4 will experience a mental health problem and the pressures of everyday life can make it tough to manage.
Then imagine overlaying the complexities of having a developmental disorder like Asperger’s syndrome or Autism. It’s hard to do, right? The way you relate to the world, the people around you, and the systems and processes all seem illogical. Nonsensical.
Christian was diagnosed with both conditions at the age of 8 and spent a large portion of his life seeking to better understand the world around him. His early years were full of laughter and joy, countless hours at Franklin’s Garden cheering on his beloved Saints rugby team. In his later years, he couldn’t easily handle the life changes happening around him and his mental health deteriorated.
On May 12th 2023, we tragically lost Christian in a road traffic collision after a severe period of mania. Heartbroken, we will never know the thoughts running through his head. We can however seek to help improve our own understanding of these conditions and how people diagnosed with Asperger’s and Autism see the world.
In August, Christian’s sister’s Sophie and Katie Payne alongside friends Connie Doak, Erica Green and Lily Cox will be cycling the 250 miles from London to Paris. We are hoping to raise £2,000 in Christian’s name for KCU, together with Enfold, to contribute to the running of run three years of programming during #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek 2024/2025 and 2026 dedicated to understanding and increasing awareness to both Asperger’s and Autism. To donate, please click the PayPal Me link below:
