These days it’s not unusual to see “go fund me” items on social media but in general these are for worthy or charitable causes so how would you react to an appeal to raise money for a bike ride on a tandem from Germany to Africa?
Now I know that in this case those involved claim that they are planning to undertake the trip to raise awareness for mental health, but come on!
Caitlin Onc currently lives with his wife Elena Engelhardt at his mum’s house and says he wants to take part in the trip to raise awareness for mental health.
His mum has taken on two jobs to support them. Apparently he told his mother, “Mum, I want you to know, that it is not only us but hundreds of others that will benefit from your help.”
Meanwhile the couple has set up a GoFundMe collection page with a £9000 target, telling people that getting a job was not an option because there are few trades for which they are qualified.
The couple said: ‘When you have the impact we do on others’ lives, getting a job is not an option. We could model and make money fast, but we don’t want to advertise consumerism. A normal job at this point would be detrimental.’
They went on, ‘We could live a lavish lifestyle but choose not to. We have seen how people are around us when they have money and we don’t. We wish you all could experience this. We are accepting money from my mother and other donations but so far we have only collected £180.’
One mental health sufferer who has been following their posts for some time commented, ‘I just don’t really get how this helps people like myself with mental health issues. This just seems like an adventure and a fun trip for you both without a significant reason to help anyone else in any way.’
Can’t argue with that, me thinks!
Today’s book choice by Margaret Mills was THE DRESSMAKER’S SECRET by CHARLOTTE BETTS.
The book is set in the 19th century and revolves around a mother and daughter working as dressmakers, living a nomadic life travelling through Italy in search of work.
They are unprepared for what happens when they become involved with the fascinating story of Princess Caroline of Brunswick, the estranged wife of King George IV.
Listen here to what Margaret thought of this book: –
If you believe that this book is for you, it was published in 2017 by PIATKUS and is available for example from W H SMITH for £6:47 and from AMAZON at £4:37.
No doubt it is also available from many other outlets.
I’ll see you again tomorrow,
Scott
