My Brother

My brother, Mark, died back in January of 2002. In fact it was 19 years ago today. Sadly he took his own life. He felt that there was no hope and no way out of the pit he was in. He gassed himself in his car at his workplace (a market garden in Virginia, SA).

I know my brother was no angel. There were times I was terrified of his behaviour but he was still my brother. He deserved better than he got. He deserved happiness and people that were understanding of his situation. If I had known how badly he was hurting I would've done something to help.

Depression is a horrible thing. An isolating thing. Something that you don't need to go through alone. There are so many places you can seek help 

Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636

Lifeline - 131114 

Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467

Even though we had our moments I still miss Mark. Brodie misses his Buddy (their name for one another) and all the mischief they got up to. Hopefully he is now resting in peace. 

It's R U OK? Day

Today is R U OK? Day

Don't just wait for today and ask if someone is okay. Ask any time and as often as you feel it's necessary. I lost a brother to suicide. I had no idea how he was feeling. I didn't ask. Don't leave it too late. Start a conversation. It could just save a life.

Depression doesn't discriminate.

ruokday.com.au

It's National R U Okay? Day

Today is national R U OK? Day. It's a day set aside each year to help inspire Australians to reach out to family, friends and colleagues and ask them if they are okay. It's all about suicide prevention and awareness. By reaching out and asking you can make a difference in someones life.

I know what it is like to lose a family member from suicide. It truly is hard for those left behind. So start a conversation by asking R U OK it can make all the difference in the world.

If you get the opportunity to ask someone if they are okay please do it. They may just need to know that you are there to listen. You don't have to solve their problems but you may just make a difference. Or it may just be a way to let your friend, colleague or family member know that you care & that you want to get to know them better.

If the person you have spoken with need help please encourage them to contact their GP or Lifeline.

Beyond Blue
Lifeline 13 11 14

Here's what I am thankful for this week?

• sunny, mild weather. It was nice to get a little bit of natural Vitamin D this week ☺
• kids that still take turns washing the dishes
• crossword puzzles because I am still not game enough to try crocheting again
• my birdie, Jonas, whistling like crazy when he is happy

What are you thankful for?

National R U Okay Day

Today is national R U Okay Day.

It's a day set aside each year to help inspire Australians to reach out to family, friends and colleagues and ask them if they are okay. It's all about suicide prevention and awareness. By reaching out and asking you can make a difference in someones life. I know what it is like to lose a close family member from suicide. It truly is hard for those left behind. So start a conversation by asking R U OK it can make all the difference in the world.

You don't need to wait for a special day to ask someone if they are okay. 

Go ahead, ask someone how they are. Show them you care.