A charity walk organized in memory of a Cumbrian police officer, James Thistlethwaite, who tragically took his own life last year, has far exceeded its initial fundraising target. Thistlethwaite, who passed away on August 19, 2023, after being diagnosed with PTSD, was honored by friends who planned the 45-mile (72km) trek from Whitehaven Harbour to the Cumbria Police Federation HQ in Penrith. The walk, named “Love you, Bye” after Thistlethwaite’s signature farewell phrase, was organized to benefit the mental health charity Every Life Matters.
The original fundraising goal of £1,000 was quickly surpassed, with donations currently totaling £6,000.
Thistlethwaite’s sister-in-law, Gemma Cole, shared heartfelt sentiments about James’ legacy: “Jim spent his life giving to others. The day James was taken from us was the day he wasn’t able to fight his own illness anymore. To me that’s no different to an illness taking away a loved one, such as cancer.” James leaves behind his wife and two children.
In preparation for the event, the group of six participants has been training rigorously, enduring both snowy and sunny conditions. The overwhelming support for the cause has deeply moved the team. A message on the fundraising page expressed their gratitude: “The full team are absolutely overwhelmed with the amount raised.”
Organizers have invited the public to join the walkers in Keswick and participate in the Keswick to Threlkeld line segment of the trek. This gesture aims to “symbolize that nobody has to suffer in silence,” highlighting the importance of community support in mental health struggles.
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