Community Rallies Behind Isle Of Wight Author As Book Launch Raises £1,255 For Mountbatten

An Isle of Wight author's debut book launch has raised more than £1,200 for Mountbatten Hospice after dozens of people turned out to support the event.

More than 85 people attended the launch of Excuses Will Kill You by entrepreneur, charity supporter and first-time author Charlie Panayi at Quay Arts on Friday evening.

Instead of keeping the proceeds from book sales on the night, Charlie donated all of the money raised from the launch to Mountbatten Hospice, with a total of £1,255 presented to the charity.

The book explores the excuses that can prevent people from pursuing their ambitions, drawing on Charlie's own experiences of growing up with social anxiety and overcoming personal challenges.

Speaking after the event, Charlie 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.

"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 book signing following the launch.

The evening was supported by several local businesses, including Red Squirrel Property Shop, Biscoes Solicitors, Hewitt's Restaurant and Face Clinic London, whose backing helped make the event possible while supporting the fundraising effort.

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."

Excuses Will Kill You is available now in Kindle, paperback and hardback formats through Amazon.

While the book is based on Charlie's own experiences, its central message encourages readers not to let fear or self-doubt stand in the way of achieving their goals.