Cork touched by brothers’ suicide agony

“THE response to our story absolutely floored us — the fact that it resonated with so many people shows just how many are affected by suicide, either directly or indirectly.”

That was the reaction of two brothers who moved the people of Cork and beyond after their story of grief and pain in the Evening Echo went viral online following their dad’s suicide.

James Collins took his own life a year ago, and sons Derek, 26, and Shane, 20, felt compelled to write about their experience so that others could relate to it.

The story was published on Wednesday and the Facebook post on the Evening Echo page reached more than 218,000 people, with hundreds praising Derek and Shane for their courage and humanity.

Derek said: “The messages of support and stories of similar tragedies befalling other families left to pick up the pieces really hit us hard.

“The absolute train wreck of emotions that decision leaves behind only spawns more pain, more heartache, more depression and unfortunately, more unnecessary deaths that could have been avoided if proper guidance and support were given to the bereaved.”

James Collins and sons Shane and Derek.

Derek said any trepidation about speaking out evaporated when the messages came flooding in.

“Once I saw the response, it told me this was an issue that a lot of people unfortunately related to and it was one that needed to be addressed.”

He said his biggest hope was that anyone suffering in silence, feeling like a burden, would open up to those close to them and tell them how they’re feeling. They should never feel weak, he insisted.

Derek said the unique character of the people of Cork had helped enormously.

“Having depression doesn’t make you weak. It doesn’t define you. That’s what I want people to realise. “We are one big family in the Rebel County and the recent Autumn Equinox event in The Lough, organised by the amazing Gerard Banks, showed that community spirit is alive and well and that there is no shortage of people there to help you out if you are ever struggling. There will always be a hand there to pull you back up if you ever fall down. There is a purpose for all of us in this life and you will find it. Live it. Breathe it. Experience it.”

To contact the Samaritans call 116 123 (ROI).

The Aware Support Line 1800 80 48 48 is available Monday – Sunday, 10am to 10pm.

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