More than £1,200 has been raised for Mountbatten Hospice after Isle of Wight entrepreneur and first-time author Charlie Panayi donated all proceeds from the launch of his debut book to the local charity.
More than 85 people attended the launch of Excuses Will Kill You at Quay Arts on Friday evening, with the event raising £1,255 for Mountbatten Hospice.
Rather than retaining the proceeds from book sales on the night, Charlie donated 100% of the money raised, turning the launch into a community fundraiser.
The book explores the excuses that can prevent people from pursuing their goals, drawing on Charlie’s own experiences of growing up with social anxiety and other personal traumas. Its central message is that fear should not be the reason for standing still.
Since its release, Excuses Will Kill You has achieved Amazon bestseller status in 3 categories.
Charlie Panayi has said:
“I don’t profess to be a writer, or even a particularly good one. I simply felt that some of the experiences I’ve had throughout my life were worth sharing if they could help someone else.
Article continues below this advertisement “This book has never been about making money – I just want to make a positive impact. Growing up with social anxiety meant I spent years making excuses for why I couldn’t do things. Looking back, I realise it wasn’t ability holding me back.
“If just one person reads the book and finds the courage to take that first step they’ve been putting off, then writing it will have been worthwhile.”
Guests heard Charlie speak about the inspiration behind the book before meeting him during a signing session following the launch.
The event was supported by a number of local businesses, including Red Squirrel Property Shop, Biscoes Solicitors, Hewitt’s Restaurant and Face Clinic London.
Charlie added:
“Seeing so many people give up their Friday evening to come along genuinely meant a great deal. The support in the room was incredible, and to know that together we raised £1,255 for Mountbatten Hospice made the evening even more special.
“I’m also incredibly grateful to Red Squirrel Property Shop, Biscoes Solicitors, Hewitt’s Restaurant and Face Clinic London for believing in the project and helping make the evening possible. It was a real community effort.”
