Hope grows amid the tragedy of suicide

AS the month of September, which is designated Suicide Awareness month draws to a close, people all over Ireland who have bereaved by suicide have been reflecting on their lost loved ones, while simultaneously helping to raise awareness of the help that is available to those currently living with mental illness.

A Tree of Hope was planted in Kilbrin Graveyard in memory of those from the Parish and surrounding areas who lost their lives to suicide. Mary Corkery who co-ordinated the project lost her son Paudie in 2010. “Our tree was planted as a symbol of hope for everyone affected by suicide, or living with mental health issues, and people can sit on the new bench beside the tree and reflect on their departed loved ones” Mary said.

A plaque on the bench carries the phone numbers of various organisations people who are suffering from depression can contact to seek help, Mary added.

Trees of Hope have also been planted in Charleville, Kilmallock, Ballyhea, and Dromina with Margaret O’Callaghan from Charleville who lost two family members to suicide at the head of the initiative. The project has been funded by a sponsored walk on Mount Brandon, undertaken by Joe Fox who is also from Charleville.

Other communities who might like to plant a Tree of Hope can contact Mary Corkery on 087 9733804 for further details.

Photo by Sheila Fitzgerald The large crowd that attended the blessing and planting of the Tree of Hope in Kilbrin Graveyard.

Fr. Michael Campbell PP blessing the Tree of Hope that was planted in Kilbrin Graveyard. Included are Mary Corkery, John Corkery, and Tom O’ Riordan.

Locals sitting on the new Bench that was installed beside the Tree of Hope in Kilbrin Graveyard.