Our First Bench Unveiling of the Day, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire 💙🙏
Today brought us to Wellingborough in Northamptonshire for our first Suicide Prevention Bench unveiling of the day, this one placed in memory of Damien Seddon.
It was another incredibly emotional and powerful occasion. The speeches were truly amazing. They were full of emotion, honesty and recognition of just how much still needs to be done if we are going to make a real difference in the fight against mental health struggles and suicide. And also an opportunity to thank everyone for the part they played in making this bench happen. Below is some of the words spoke in gratitude to everyone involved, and also a little background to the Bench installation.
And then comes that moment we know so well, the cover comes off the bench.
It is always one of the most poignant moments of the day. For a few seconds, everything seems to stand still. Your mind wanders to the people we have loved and lost, to memories shared, to conversations, laughter and moments that we would give anything to have back.
For Damien’s family and everyone who knew and loved him, this bench will carry his name and his memory forward. But it will also stand for something else, hope, conversation and the simple message that someone is always listening.
A huge thank you to the Seddon Legacy Project. What you have done is truly amazing, and the love and determination behind this bench was there for everyone to see today.
A big thank you to our very own Local Champion Mervyn Hemmington, who attended, unveiled and spoke at the unveiling. You are one of a kind Merv and we love and appreciate you. Thank you
And thank you to every single person who played their part in making this happen. Whether your contribution was big or small, every bit of support matters. It all adds up to something that can make a difference.
There are so many families left behind after suicide, carrying questions that we may never be able to answer.
Why?
It is a question that can stay with a family forever. We may never know the answer, and that is one of the reasons we do what we do. We want to help create a world where people feel able to speak, where someone who is struggling knows they are not alone, and where reaching out for help is seen as a sign of strength rather than something to be ashamed of.
Because life is our most precious gift.
We have to treasure it. We have to look after one another. And when someone is struggling, we have to do everything within our power to be there for them.
Damien’s bench will now have its own story to tell.
A story of a life that mattered, a family who will always love him, and a community coming together to make sure that his memory can help bring hope to someone else.
That is what our benches are about.
Remembering those we have lost, supporting those who are struggling, and giving hope to those who may feel they have none.
Three unveilings today, and somehow every single one still touches your heart in a different way.
And we carry on.
For Damien
For his family.
For every family who has been left asking why.
And for every life that might still be saved.
💙🙏
