Raising awareness of mental health with The Blue Rower

Mental health affects each and every one of us in some way at some point, and at some point in our lives, whether that's you, a family member or friend.

For Isaac Giesen, The Blue Rower, it was his aunty and two friends.

We joined Partners Finance & Lease in welcoming Isaac, aka The Blue Rower, to share his story and raise awareness of mental health.

Isaac is the first New Zealander to complete a solo row across The Atlantic Ocean and to also row two oceans in one year – spending a total of 143 days at sea.

Now he’s promoting positive mental health around the country by taking along his boat 'Bonnie Lass', telling his story and sharing the pointers that helped him along the way.

We welcomed Isaac on Thursday 8th August to hear about his journey but most importantly, to spread the word.

Steve Kennedy, Managing Director at EQ Consultants, said: "Huge thanks to Isaac for joining us and sharing his story. We had a great evening hearing about Isaac's adventures at sea, but more importantly lifting the stigma that surrounds mental health. No matter how big or small an issue may seem, it's encouraging to hear that every day more people are openly speaking out and seeking help. As an employer, we have a huge responsibility to ensure that our team are happy and healthy in and outside of the workplace and to support them as best we can." 

The evening was wrapped up with a charity auction in aid of I AM HOPE.

I AM HOPE is a community-focused support group aiming to forever change the way New Zealanders think, act, and feel about mental health and mental well-being. Their specific goal is to work alongside health professionals, service providers, and those within communities to promote positive attitudinal change throughout Aoteoroa.

Big thanks to the following businesses for their kind contributions to our charity auction:

Crowne Plaza Christchurch
Christchurch Casino
Linden Leaves
Dairyworks
Nevada Sport
Ayrshire e.b.a
McCashin’s Brewery
Christchurch Attractions
Hanmer Springs Attractions
Giesen Wines
Cafe Valentino

Thanks to everyone involved we raised more than $3,100 for I AM HOPE.

You can find out more about The Blue Rower here and I AM HOPE here.

 

The Blue Rower Christchurch2

Bryan Inch Partners Finance LeaseSteve Kennedy EQ Consultants

Isaac Giesen The Blue Rower

Isaac Giesen David Hazlett

Boat

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