Hallidays Point mum Deb Schmitzer says she has 'always' been a water baby, learning to swim in the oceans around the Manning and Great Lakes as a youngster.
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Deb also is renowned throughout the community for her tireless, charitable work, always happy to put up her hand to raise funds and contribute wherever possible.
This month Deb will combine both her passions, diving into the deep end of Black Head ocean pool in an attempt to raise money for mental health charity, ReachOut through Laps for Life.
You don't have to struggle in silence; at the very heart of this problem is the way we view mental health.
- Deb Schmitzer
With her goggles firmly in place, Deb plans to swim rain or shine to raise money for young people experiencing mental health issues.
One in four young Australians experience a mental health difficulty, and the problem is accelerating following the coronavirus pandemic.
Concern from health professionals and family, 70 per cent of those who need help don't get it and suicide remains the leading cause of death of young Australians.
In 2019 more than 460 young people died in Australia by suicide.
"I have watched adults struggle around me," she said.
"In the last year we have had fire, floods and drought; so many traumatic experiences.
"But, you don't have to struggle in silence; at the very heart of this problem is the way we view mental health.
"Whether an illness affects your heart your hands your legs or your brain it is still an illness and there should be no distinction.
"Mental health needs more light and unashamed conversations along with funding.
"I think it's vitally important to de-stigmatise mental illness in any form.
"A reminder for those struggling right now, you will smile again."
Deb will be joined in her quest by friends, who plan to swim at their own pace and selected distance.
During the swim Deb said she would turn her mind to all the good things life has thrown her way,
"I will think about all the things I am grateful for; I am grateful I can do this that I can move my body to help people with mental health issues."
Following a mishap earlier this week, Deb has been forced to scale back her ambitious swim plans.
However, Deb will be back in the water within no time she promised.
Luckily, she had already notched up six kilometres towards her swim.
To support Deb in her challenge Laps for Life HERE.
Deb extended her thanks to the following sponsors and to all supporting fundraising efforts: Halliday's Point Lions Club, Club Black Head, Diamond Beach Butchery, Halliday's Point Accommodation, Centre XStyles Salon, LJ Hooker Halliday's Point Tavern, P&L McKinnon Building, Lorellin Day Spa, Happy Holidays Caravan Park, Waves @ Black Head, FoodWorks, Bunnings, Rejuvenating Spirits Nabiac, Kiddies Hut, Mystic Soul Dance Wear and Embroidery, Ethical Electrical and Refrigeration, BHSLSC.
A raffle with all proceeds going to Deb's Laps for Life challenge will be held on Saturday, March 20 at Club Black Head from 6pm. Prizes include an accomodation package, barbecue, Bunnings gift vouchers for the Nest Restaurant, Club Black Head gift vouchers, XSTYLES Salon gift vouchers, Lorellin Day Spa Mental Health First Aid Course, Rejuvenating Spirits Nabiac, Kid's Gift Box
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