I was brought up in a very loving family and was only slightly aware that others were not so lucky.

As I grew up this awareness increased but it was not until recently that I came to understand how awful a childhood can be.

I met a guy at work who told me of his experiences growing up and how he was abused.  This led to an angry confrontational lifestyle, a downward spiral into fighting, physical injuries, drug abuse and massive psychological scars leading to a number of suicide attempts from the age of 7.

Dave told me a small part of his story after it was suggested he share his experiences by the counsellor he sees.  Dave started attending Axis Counselling four years ago who have made a massive difference to his life.  He now understands his PTSD, its triggers and root causes, and is able to function sociably with the help of the counselling and medication.  He is now also in a loving relationship himself.

Without the counselling Dave doesn’t know if he would be with us today.

After hearing Dave’s story, I resolved to undertake the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge to raise funds for this charity so that Axis Counselling can help other desperate people who are in the position Dave was or have had even worst experiences.

Axis Counselling supports victims of non-recent (historical) Sexual abuse; any form of sexual assault, sexual violence, sexual exploitation or rape.  They do this for boys or girls over the age of 5.

If you can afford to sponsor me, I can assure you that the money raised will make a big difference in the well-being of some of the most vulnerable people in society.  It will help people understand what has happened to them, that this wasn’t their fault, and give them the ability to cope with their lives and to know that people do care.

To Donate to Dave’s Story: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/davewebbiow