Speaking up for everyday kindness

THE founder of suicide prevention charity SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY has praised a Huon Valley family for their bravery in speaking out after their teenage son’s death.

Mitch McPherson, who started the charity after his younger brother, Ty, took his own life in 2013, said he was contacted by Josh Coad’s family after the 14-year-old’s death in October last year.

Josh’s mother, Kristy Coad, visited Mr McPherson with a financial donation to SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY after collecting donations in lieu of flowers at Josh’s funeral.

“Those moments are really sad for me, when I meet someone that has lost a loved one, and it’s bittersweet when they fundraise money for us,’’ Mr McPherson said.

“Not everyone likes to be open about their grief which is fine, and I think it takes great courage to share your story of tragedy, but I believe it can raise awareness to a really important topic and better the lives of others.”

Mr McPherson said being kind to one another was a simple yet meaningful thing people could do in the course of their everyday lives.

“The smallest of gestures can go a really long way,’’ he said.

“Holding doors, smiling, saying nice things. They are easy to do and can make a massive difference.

“Children are watching and soaking up everything that adults do, so if we can show them kindness and empathy, they are values they will uphold as an adult.”

Mr McPherson said SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY had a high school mental health program promoting kindness and supporting one another.