'My brother died by suicide - this is how I'm honouring his 40th birthday'
Each run is for a moment we shared; childhood memory; part of him that I carry with me every day.
Billy died by suicide last November.
Me and Billy — where every smile tells a story (Image: NQ staff) Since then, my world has changed in ways I could never have imagined.
But through the heartbreak, something meaningful took shape.
Alongside my partner, Harley Stacey Green, we created a support group called Because of Billy — a place for people grieving the loss of someone to suicide.
It started as a small circle.
We're from Welling, and when we started this group, we didn't know how many people it would reach.
Just a handful of people who needed somewhere to talk, cry or simply sit without needing to explain their pain.
Because of Billy: Grief support group grows from personal loss to community (Image: NQ staff) Now, three months in, it's become a steady and supportive community.
We've seen friendships form, tears shared, and tiny steps toward healing.
The 40km challenge is not just a tribute to Billy.
It's a way to raise funds so we can keep showing up for others walking through the same kind of grief.
Each kilometre run for Billy helps others find strength in shared grief (Image: NQ staff) Your support helps us:
Provide refreshments and comforts at every session
Create welcome packs and support materials for new members
Invite trained mental health speakers and grief facilitators
Host remembrance walks, creative healing days and support events
Print outreach materials to reach more people in need
Offer travel support for anyone struggling to attend
We've set a fundraising goal of £500 and every donation genuinely matters.
This isn't about charity.
It's about community.
It's about helping people feel seen, held and less alone during the worst time of their lives.
Donate: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/billy-payne-40
Join us: Saturday, August 2, Danson Park, Bexleyheath
Follow the journey: facebook.com/holly.brencher
On August 2, what would have been Billy's 40th birthday, we'll come together in Danson Park for a 4km walk or run, followed by a balloon release in his honour.
Everyone is welcome — whether you're a runner or not, whether you knew Billy or just want to support someone who's grieving.
This journey is personal, but it's not just mine.
Every step I run is for Billy.
Every pound raised will help someone else carry their grief with a little more support.
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