Athlone Castle, Athlone,Dublin,Ireland Bench Reveal with DPD

Sometimes it’s just a simple Hello, that can make all the difference.

Some days stay with you long after they’ve ended, even though you are not in attendance, today was one of those days.

I had the honour of being part of the official unveiling of the Suicide Prevention Bench at the back of Athlone Castle, through pictures and videos that were sent to me via our LOTB representatives. Despite not being there I don’t think I’ll ever forget how it made me feel. It wasn’t just the unveiling of a bench, it was the unveiling of hope, compassion, understanding, and the simple but powerful reminder that none of us should ever have to face life’s darkest moments alone.

As I sat there looking at the videos and pictures, I couldn’t help but think about the people who may one day sit there. Someone who feels overwhelmed, someone carrying grief that nobody else can see, someone who simply needs a moment to breathe. My hope is that this bench becomes more than just a place to rest. I hope it becomes a place where conversations begin, where silence is gently broken, where tears are met with kindness, and where hope quietly finds its way back into someone’s heart.

It was incredibly moving to see so many people in attendance. Attendees present included, the CEO and Directors of DPD Ireland, the Bench Sponsors.

Mary Gaffey, head of people & Talent at DPD Ireland, who was very instrumental in achieving this Bench Reveal.

Stephen Thacker, who is  head of training and development with DPD, 

Des Travers who is the CEO of DPD.

Thank you all so much for your support and kindness, you are helping save lives, together we are being the difference.

The day wouldn’t be complete without a massive thank you to the very people who made this bench installation possible. A big thank you to DPD Ireland for their support and kindness towards this campaign, your commitment was amazing. Mary Gaffey for her tireless and relenting march to achieving this installation. Mags Malloy for being an amazing Local Champion for LOTB, you lead from the front Mags with the biggest heart of all, thank you.

Thank you to all the attendees who made this unveiling extra special by your presence, thank you.

Please, keep talking. Keep listening. Keep checking in on one another.🙏

You never know how much your kindness could mean to someone who needs it most. 💙