Reverend Helen Palma-Cass, also known to many of us who love her, (and those who enjoy her writing!), by her pen name Ellie Palma-Cass, has survived suicide and now uses her story to encourage courage and hope. She’s open about her long battle with suicidal thoughts in her teens, twenties, and thirties, and speaks with an honesty that hits home for many. Her background in Mental Health Law, international charity leadership, and national charity management gives her words real weight.
Ellie doesn’t just talk about mental health in the abstract. She addresses the toxic relationships and trauma that shaped her from an early age, making her message connect with people who’ve faced similar pain. However, her story isn’t just about struggle, it’s about change. Whether in her books or on stage, she’s determined to show that real hope is within reach for any of us.
Her talks focus on why suicide prevention matters and why proper training saves lives. People leave her speeches with a sense that hope is real, even when things are at their worst
We do this by identifying and supporting those in crisis, nurturing an inclusive environment of compassion where every person can share, connect, and find hope and healing, without stigma.
We are dedicated to empowering community members with the skills to save lives and to building a network of understanding and resources that assists anyone touched by suicide.
Our vision is a future where every person in our boroughs recognises their inherent value and feels a steadfast sense of hope and connection.
We strive to establish a compassionate society where the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide is eradicated, and open conversations and support systems are the norm, leading to a zero-suicide reality.
We are committed to equipping individuals, communities, and institutions with the resources, education, and support needed to prevent suicide and to nurture strength, understanding, and the preservation of life at every opportunity.
Our core values are rooted in compassion, connection, and courage. We believe in the power of empathy to understand and support those in pain. We value the strength of community and the importance of building meaningful connections to combat isolation. We champion the courage it takes to reach out, to speak openly about struggles, and to stand together in the face of adversity. Education, respect, and inclusivity guide our actions as we strive to create communities where every life is valued and every cry for help is heard and answered.
As an award-winning speaker and bestselling author, Ellie’s achievements go far beyond her own survival. Her lived experience makes her message resonate even more. She’s had more than her share of physical battles, too. Two years before a near fatal cycling accident left her with lasting neurological injuries, she underwent major spine surgery. Despite all this, Ellie’s kept going, just as determined as ever.
If you want to learn more about Ellie and her work, you can visit elliepalmacass.com.
Ellie’s journey is proof that hope can carry you through. By sharing what she’s endured and learned, she’s helping change the conversation about mental health and suicide prevention and making a real impact. I’m honoured to be her friend and co-advocate.
Dr Shobin Abraham
07483186351 Crisis Harbour
© 2024 EPiC HOPE. EPiC HOPE CIC is a non-profit organisation. Registered CIC No. 14984256.
