A fitness club in Dunedin recently took on a unique challenge to raise funds for mental health. Members of Snap Fitness Dunedin committed to doing a lap of Baldwin St for every person lost to suicide in New Zealand this year. Despite the wind, rain, and snow, the club braved 538 laps of the world’s steepest street. The initiative is part of a wider fundraiser with I Am Hope New Zealand for Gumboot Friday, which aims to raise awareness for mental health.
Nadia Buchanan, the club manager, highlighted the alarming suicide statistics in New Zealand. She mentioned that about nine people attempt suicide in the country every day. The fitness club wanted to come together as a collective and set themselves a challenge to bring awareness and raise funds for I Am Hope New Zealand.
The challenge began with one club member doing 18 laps of Baldwin St early on Friday. This act of solidarity kick-started the event and motivated others to join in. Buchanan described the feeling of camaraderie and togetherness that the challenge created. She also shared her personal experience with postpartum depression and how having a supportive community has helped her.
Despite the weather warning, the team did not let it stop them. They continued their laps of the steepest street, even in heavy snow. Buchanan humorously mentioned that they wondered if they would be skiing down Baldwin St once they reached the top. The team recognized that one lap of Baldwin St is nothing compared to the loss of a loved one.
The fitness club will continue to accept donations through the I Am Hope social media platform. They hope to raise more funds and spread awareness about mental health.
If you or someone you know needs help, there are several helplines available in New Zealand. These include 1737, a free 24/7 phone and text number, Healthline, Lifeline Aotearoa, Suicide Crisis Helpline, Samaritans, Alcohol Drug Helpline, General mental health inquiries, The Depression Helpline, and Youthline.
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