A FATHER from Carmarthenshire is running this weekend’s London Marathon in memory of his wife, Carys, who died by suicide after a decline in her mental health during menopause.
Paul Davies is speaking publicly about what happened for the first time. His hope is that sharing Carys’s story will help other women and other families across Wales recognise the signs of menopause-related mental health changes and know where to find trusted support.
Paul said: “This is not an easy story to tell. But if sharing what happened to Carys helps another woman or another family, then it is the right thing to do. We miss her every day.”
Carys was a much-loved mum, wife, daughter, fun grandmother, sister and loyal friend. Following her death, Paul and his family chose to honour her life by supporting The Menopause Charity, helping to raise awareness of the impact menopause can have on mental health and ensuring more women can access trusted information and support.
As part of their fundraising, donations were generously given in lieu of flowers at Carys’s funeral. Since then, family, friends and the wider community have continued to come together to support Paul’s marathon effort.
Quizzes and curry nights have played an important role in raising both sponsorship and vital awareness. Paul has raised more than £6,000 so far for The Menopause Charity.
Carys and Paul lived in Carmarthenshire, where they raised their daughter, Alys. Alys has shared her own tribute on The Menopause Charity website.
She said: “Carys, a beautiful Welsh woman, with a fierce sense of humour that could light a room, and a compassion that ran just as deep. Style came effortlessly to her, but it was her heart that truly defined her. She always put others first, often without a second thought for herself.
“Carys’ story reminds us how important it is to look beyond what is visible, to listen with kindness, and to support one another with compassion and understanding. To speak openly, to raise awareness, and to ensure that no one feels alone in their darkest moments.
“She is loved. She is missed. And her story matters.”
Sadly, many women experience severe mental health changes during menopause, but these signs are often missed. Research shows that around one in six women have suicidal thoughts at this stage of life, and that suicide rates are highest among women aged 45 to 50.
Funds raised will help The Menopause Charity continue to listen to lived experiences, provide trusted information, and educate communities about menopause and mental health. This work helps ensure fewer people feel alone or unsupported during a difficult time.
The charity wants more people in Wales and across the UK to understand how menopause can affect mental health, and to help women and partners feel more comfortable talking about menopause and supporting one another.
You can support Paul’s fundraising by visiting his JustGiving page
