Legend on the Bench

A Message from Legend on the Bench – Our 41st Bench, and a Heartbreaking Reminder

Yesterday, on August 3rd, we proudly unveiled our 41st Legend on the Bench in Great Dunmow. The occasion was beautiful, filled with warmth, reflection, and community spirit.

However, it was also marked by unimaginable sadness for our family. Just two days prior, on August 1st ( the day my Mum died 23 years ago ) a very close family member tragically took their own life. They made their way to a local park and died by suicide while sitting on a bench.

The pain, heartbreak, and shock we are experiencing are at times unbearable. As a family, we were faced with the agonising decision of whether to proceed with the reveal. In the end, we chose to move forward, because this mission, and the lives it can save, are bigger than any one of us.

The bench where this tragedy occurred was not one of ours. We will never know if a Legend on the Bench might have helped save her, but we believe deep in our hearts that it could have.

And so, despite our heartbreak, we are more determined than ever to get more benches out into parks and open spaces. Mental health awareness and suicide prevention are at the very core of what we do, and in honour of our loved one……and every other life lost……we will continue our work with even greater resolve.

To those who have been touched by suicide: our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please know we are giving everything we have to bring awareness, support and information to those who need it most, right at the moment they need it.

Please talk. It’s okay not to be okay. And please, listen. It takes real courage to speak……….but it also takes real courage to listen.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We’d like to express our deepest gratitude to some incredible people and supporters:

Sharon and Terry 2 very special people who gave their all to raise funds and support our charity. Your efforts mean more than words can say. Thank you for your time effort and commitment, we very much appreciate all you have done and are doing.

The local council, not only for approving the installation of the bench but also for donating £500 toward its cost. Your kindness is helping to save lives.

The Mayor and Town Crier, for your presence and words at the reveal. Your commitment and time are truly appreciated.

Everyone who attended in support of our charity, thank you. It’s because of people like you that we are able to continue this work.

All our volunteers, who give their time, energy, and love completely free of charge, without claiming a single penny in expenses. We are incredibly proud that 100% of all money raised goes directly toward installing benches. I’m proud of every one of you, thank you.

Though we are living through our darkest hour, we know that after the darkest hour comes the light of day.

Thank you all for your love, support, and belief in our mission. Together, we will continue to fight for awareness, compassion, and life.

💙💙💙🙏🙏🙏💔

Legend on the Bench