Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Suicide after toll of covid isolation & dog’s death
A MAN took his own life after his dog died and he became isolated in lockdown, an inquest heard.
Lee Jefferson, 40, was found dead at his home after colleagues became concerned when he did not turn up for work, on June 22 last year.
A neighbour told the hearing that Mr Jefferson, who was single, was spending weekends alone in his house in Derby and did not appear to have any hobbies to keep him busy.
The city’s coroner’s court heard he had a history of depression and had become withdrawn after the death of his greyhound Juliet.
Friend Tony Fenn told the inquest: “A couple of colleagues became quite concerned he hadn’t shown up for work as that was unlike him.
“Juliet’s passing had an impact on him. He loved her so much.”
Sophie Lomas, assistant coroner for Derby and Derbyshire, said: “I think the death of his dog was hugely significant.
“He was also struggling with the ongoing pressures caused by the pandemic. “It’s a tragic situation.” Verdict: Suicide.
Ten years ago today, I was sitting in a Karachi orphanage waiting to adopt a baby girl. My stomach was churning with excitement and nervousness. When I was handed a little pink bundle, my heart was in my mouth. I held out my arms and stared into a pair of huge, brown eyes.
Her eyes never left my gaze and in that moment we were bonded for life.
The universe had brought us together.
I named her Amara and, on her 10th birthday today, I have to say how proud I am of the gentle, kind and caring human she is.
Happy birthday, Amara. You are the daughter I always yearned for and dreamed about.