CORK’S Concert of Hope took place in City Hall last night, with hundreds helping to shine a light on the issues of suicide, depression and self-harm.
Run annually by Colette and Anthony Wolfe, who lost their 18-year-old daughter Leanne to suicide in 2007, the event saw inspirational music from choirs and musical groups from across the city.
At the Concert of Hope, You Are Not Alone, at City Hall, Cork, were Anthony and Colette Wolfe o, Cork; Cllr. Joe Kavanagh, Deputy Lord Mayor, and Pastor Hope and Pastor Paul Orimolusi of RCCG Inspiration House, Cork. Picture: Denis Minihane.
Through the You Are Not Alone support group, Colette and Anthony support those affected by suicide and depression, hosting monthly coffee mornings and visiting schools.
The Concert of Hope has attracted a wider audience each year, with more than 500 in attendance in 2015.
Colette said that in the wake of her own loss, she felt there were no supports for families.
“When we lost our daughter, we felt that nobody had really spoken about suicide. We felt lonely and isolated.
“This event is not just about suicide, it is about hope for everyone. The recession hurt a lot of people. These events, and our coffee mornings, let people know that other people do care.”
Reflecting on her own loss, Colette said that she ‘wanted to die’ after she lost Leanne to suicide.
“I wasn’t afraid of dying, I was afraid of living,” she said.
Colette said that despite the good work done in recent years, there is still a lot more to do to tackle issues around suicide in Ireland.
She said, “There is still a stigma attached to suicide and depression. Leanne felt that she couldn’t cope, but we were her family, we were very close.
“And, afterwards, you see the effect it has. People are dealing with grief and loss, loneliness and guilt. The supports just aren’t there.”
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