23 May 2024

A family’s tribute: Riding for Ryan

Via colleagues with Steve Green standing around a Via banner

From left to right: Annie Miller, Liz Ayres, Sharon Cooper, Teresa Aspden (team members from Via’s Northwich hub) and Ryan’s father, Steve Green

 

We’re really proud to share that family and friends of one of the people supported by our New Beginnings service in Cheshire West and Chester are raising funds in his memory.

In honour of their beloved son, cousin, and friend, Ryan Green, whose life was tragically cut short due to mental health and substance use, the Green family are gearing up to participate in the Ford-sponsored RideLondon-Essex 100 mile bike ride on 26 May 2024. Ryan’s father Steve, cousin Chris, and friend and colleague Kevin are taking part in the remarkable challenge to fundraise for Via.

Via’s Northwich hub provided vital support to Ryan, offering support and guidance throughout his journey. The service is also providing ongoing support to the family through their family and carers group.

Drug, alcohol and mental health issues are often misunderstood, and the need for support continues to increase. The Green family, deeply aware of this reality, is determined to make a difference in Ryan’s memory by raising awareness and funds for Via.

This mission is made possible with the generous support of Regit.cars and Electric Glue, the main sponsors of the bike ride. The Green family and their team are grateful for every contribution, big or small, as they pedal towards their fundraising goal.

Dave Targett, Area Director at Via said: “I know Ryan’s death has been felt deeply by his family and friends who loved him very much. By taking this opportunity to raise awareness of the complex support needs associated with substance misuse, they are doing a great thing, and they remind us that society has a responsibility to care for those who need help.

I give my very deepest condolences, not only to Ryan’s family but to every person affected by the death of a friend or family member, and my thanks to Ryan’s family and their sponsors for helping us to continue to support those with similar challenges in life.”

For those wishing to support the Green family’s fundraiser for Via, donations can be made through their fundraising page here.


About Via

Via is a leading health and wellbeing charity that supports people to transform their lives for the better and helps them to manage their health and wellbeing independently. Providing safe and effective treatment and care around alcohol and drugs, mental health, smoking cessation, sexual health and employment support, Via supports thousands of people every year across the UK. For more information about Via, visit www.viaorg.uk or contact communications@viaorg.uk.