Diana Derek (Dee Dee's)  

Pursuit To Happiness Black Dog Ride 2013

Dear Friends,

Most of you would know that last year was truly the toughest year of my life.

I lost my very special dad to Cancer and since then my life has changed forever.  Everyday I remember the lessons he taught me and they have shaped the person I am today. One of those lessons is to live life to the fullest and to have an open heart to all.

Over the course of this last year I have been doing what is best defined as “soul searching” which has lead me to mindfulness, meditation/yoga and No Lights No Lycra.

But still I was looking for the perfect challenge...

After a meeting with a truly inspiring friend Beata English I decided that I too would embark on the Black Dog Ride to Happiness through Inspired Adventures to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute.

Each year, Black Dog Institute aims to advance the understanding, diagnosis and management of depression and Bipolar Disorder and improve the lives of those affe affected by these mood disorders.  I would like to ask you to help me to raise funds by donating through my page.

Please click on Donate Now to make a secure online donation.?

My adventure begins on the 11th October 2013.  Over the course of 12 days, I will get to know the magical kingdom of Bhutan.  My adventure will come together and join the Dragon Riders Motorcycle Club on a 2-day charity ride delivering much-needed supplies to villages and schools in remote corners of the Kingdom.  My goal is to raise $3000.00 for the Black Dog Institute by the 11th September 2013.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible and go directly to the Black Dog Institute. 

The Black Dog Ride to Happiness 2013 is a unique opportunity to discover Bhutan and raise vital funds for the Black Dog Institute’s Community Programs.  These Programs work with rural and metropolitan communities in Australia to increase Awareness of mood Disorders, reduce stigma-surrounding mental illness and build resilience in individuals. The Black Dog Institute’s work has led to a reduced social stigma around mental illness and has increased awareness and diagnosis with treatment of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, Mental health remains one of Australia's most devastating health problems.   Knowledge is power, so please reach out to your friends and tell them about Black Dog Ride to Happiness.

The Black Dog Institute has personally helped some of my dearest friends and continues to help improve so many lives everyday.

I dedicate my adventure to my dad but also to the very special people in my life who have supported me over this last year and equally as importantly to those friends who are suffering from depression or a mental illness today.

So please in the name of my dad, smile even in challenging times, remember to give hugs and please donate.

Thank you!

DD