Rock the Night Away Music Gig Raises £1,500 for Aware NI
The Carman’s Inn in Crossgar hosted an unforgettable evening of live music on Saturday, 22nd July, featuring local talent to support a mental health charity.
The event raised awareness about mental health and gathered £1,500 in funds for AWARE NI, a leading charity helping individuals affected by mental health issues.
The highly anticipated gig, which kicked off at 8.30 pm, delivered incredible performances from local talents.
What made the event special was that it offered free entry, allowing everyone to participate and show support for this important cause.
Marty Galbraith, one of the event organisers and a performing band member, had personal reasons for taking part.
He said: “I believe in giving back to the community and using my skills to raise funds for a cause close to my heart.
“It also provides much needed entertainment for people… and the gig entry was free.
“Mental health has personally affected me, and I have witnessed its impact on friends and families.
“It’s a dark place to be, but with the right support, recovery is possible.”
Marty’s journey through his own mental health challenges led him to a turning point.
He managed, thanks to a simple act of kindness unknowingly from a friend, to move out of that dark place and it helped save his life.
He encourages others to seek support and shares the strategies that have helped him cope.
Marty also encourages others to seek support and share the strategies that have helped him on his journey.
He added: “When I found things very difficult, I chose to do it by myself, dealing with my issues and trying to claw my way out.
“In my case, it worked, but it was really difficult. In more recent times, I have spoken to a counsellor and have found that to be super beneficial.
“I have also included journaling regularly just to get my thoughts out onto paper.
“It sounds simple and basic, but it really does help to relieve the feelings of anxiety and depression getting those things out of your head.
“The main thing is that there’s no ‘one-way-fix-all’ approach, and you have to find what works for you. And remember, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
Lesley Wright, Community Fundraising Officer at AWARE NI, expressed her gratitude for the event, and said: “We are incredibly thankful for the efforts of Marty and the entire organising team.
“Events like this not only raise vital funds, but also help us bring greater awareness to the adverse effects of mental health on individuals and communities.
“By supporting each other and fostering open conversations, we can make a real difference.”
The event brought together the local community and music enthusiasts for an unforgettable night of live music and solidarity, creating a positive impact.
It raised vital funds for AWARE NI and fostered a supportive environment to tackle mental health challenges.
