22 October 2023 , 20:17
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A "fantastic" mum who died hours after playing with her kids in the garden has been remembered as someone who would "would give her last fiver to the homeless".
Jade Roberts, from Knotty Ash, was just 26 when she died in April 2021. Since then, Jade's heartbroken mum Tracey has vowed to help others by setting up a charity called the Jade Roberts Project, which is dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding the "silent killer" and providing aid to those struggling with anxiety, depression, suicide and addictions.
Mum Tracey previously described how she did not realise the true extent of the mental health struggles her daughter was suffering, with anxiety and depression hiding underneath her smiles. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo this summer, Tracey said: "Jade was absolutely beautiful inside and out. She was constantly worried about others and their problems and I truly believe that was a way of hiding how she was feeling.
Jade Roberts took her own life after struggling with anxiety and depression (Liverpool ECHO)"She was a fantastic mum and had an infectious laugh. She was the life and soul of the party and would give her last fiver to the homeless. She loved cooking and animals and said one day she would be a vet. She adored her family. I miss her so much and I love her. She gives me the strength and courage to do what I'm doing.
"To have this charity in Jade's name, may sound daft, but it's a legacy for her and her children. I know she would've wanted me to help others and it's an honour to do that in her name." As Tracey herself fell deeper into depression she said she faced a choice of letting herself "spiral further and give up" or make a positive change and "help others".
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With the help of her loved ones, the trained psychotherapist set up the project which is based at Merseyside's 109 Rocky Lane, Anfield. The charity provides workshops on anxiety, depression, suicide prevention and coping techniques as well as offering a counselling service.
And kindhearted Carl Ellis is now raising money for the project by taking part in a 100km row at Phoenix Fitness gym in Old Swan on November 28. Carl, 53, from Tuebrook, north-east of Liverpool, said: "I wanted to do something for mental health awareness and my daughter put me in touch with Tracey who set up the Jade Roberts Project. She's the most selfless woman I've ever met.
"I've never known someone to work so hard. She's putting so much work into helping other people. She's an absolute diamond." More than £2,000 has been raised via Carl's GoFundMe page for the charity. To visit the fundraising page click here.
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or visit their site to find your local branch