Sadly, seven Australians will take their lives today and tragically, many of those will be teenagers. Many of us have personal stories, or are connected to others who themselves have been touched by the suicide death of a young person.

The WHO* has ranked Australia as high as 3rd in the world for youth suicide (amongst males) which is simply astounding given our nation's affluence, opportunity and first-world status. Clearly, something is desperately wrong and every young life that hangs in the balance is a life that can be saved. You and I can do something to turn the tide.

We at Focus believe it’s time to turn the tide and address this issue head on, but we need your help. We are partnering with leading Christian endurance walking event Go the Extra Mile, in a bid to raise much needed funding to help tackle what is a staggering national tragedy. Go the Extra Mile is a professionally operated, outdoor event comprising challenge with fun that is ideal for church, community and sporting groups and is suitable for all family members, young and old.

With your help we're aiming to raise $100,000 to fund our teenage suicide prevention program. With help, we can turn back the tide and bring hope to struggling Australian teenagers.

Go the Extra Mile's 50km fundraising endurance event happens on Saturday May 5, 2012 and takes in the gentle trails along the Dandenong Creek Trail, climbing up to its finish located in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges National Park at Ferny Creek Reserve.

*World Health Organisation