Point Cook local Christian Rechichi says his own journey with mental health has inspired him to fundraise for Beyond Blue throughout February.
Mr Rechichi is participating in the Febfast campaign, for which he is giving up alcohol until February 28, in return for donations towards Beyond Blue.
He is aiming to raise a total of $300 for the foundation.
Febfast, run annually by the Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS), raises funds to support young people facing drugs, alcohol or mental health issues.
Mr Rechichi, who is studying to become a doctor, said that he has been experiencing mental health issues for the past five years
“Luckily I had a lot of support,” he said.
“Truth is, not a lot of people are that lucky.”
Mr Rechichi said that as a child, he also acted as an “anchor” for a friend who was facing their own struggle with mental health.
“Beyond Blue is such a marvellous foundation and it helps those who may not feel like they have that support,” he said.
“As a child suffering from undiscovered mental health in the past, it is extremely hard to speak up and if Beyond Blue had more publicity/funding, they could prevent more trauma from surfacing.”
Mr Rechichi said he would like to thank everyone who has donated to his fundraising efforts, including his friends and family.
“Thank you to my significant other for being my support and a bigger donator, and last, thank you to the Devereux’s (friends of Mr Rechichi) for being a constant anchor in my journey.”
Mr Rechichi said that although February was already underway, he would encourage other people to join Febfast.
“If you are considering doing some charity work, this is your sign,” he said.
“It could be Beyond Blue or maybe even something that resonates closer to yourself.
“Help people that need it more than us – put some good out in the world.
Details: febfast.org.au/christian-rechichi, febfast.org.au/t/kidswithmentalhealth
By Alesha Capone
