Carl Norton laces up for If U Care Share charity
Fix Auto UK regional business manager Carl Norton is taking part in the Great North Run to raise funds for suicide prevention charity If U Care Share.
The challenge and charity has deep personal meaning to Norton, whose son Thomas took his own life in March 2023.
If U Care Share has been set up to provide vital suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention support to young people and families affected by suicide.
Norton, who is the driving force behind Fix Auto UK’s award-winning Mental Health First Aiders programme, said: “I’m running for Thomas, and for every family touched by suicide. If this helps just one person open up, seek help, or feel less alone, then it’s worth every step. Those who know me know I absolutely hate the thought of running, so I really am stepping out of my comfort zone.
“Thomas was just 25 years old when we tragically lost him to suicide in March 2023. He was bright, funny, thoughtful, and had so much life ahead of him. To those who knew him, he was a kind soul who carried others through their darkest moments, even while quietly battling his own.
“No family or friend should have to experience the pain of losing someone to suicide. It’s a heartbreak that ripples out, touching everyone who loved them. But with awareness, support, and understanding lives can be saved, and that’s why I am running.”
