Monday, March 25, 2019

Another Victim

 One more victim has been added to the list of people in the 12/14/12 tragedy at Sandy Hook School. The father of one of the victims took his own life at Edmund Town Hall in Newtown this morning.  The town is understandably reeling at the news with hundreds-perhaps thousands- of reactions on social media  and the local newspapers and television.

This latest victim was a man who 'seemed' to be dealing with his loss constructively.  He started a foundation in his daughter's name-The Avielle Foundation-and he was an active, inspirational speaker for the cause of mental health.  It is a very sad reminder that no one really knows what kind of pain people may be in-at least not until they seek help. Sometimes, as in this case, it is too much to bear. In my view there is nothing worse than losing a child. Nothing. Sure losing a spouse, a parent, sibling, etc is traumatic but losing a child is in a whole other category to me.  Frankly, it's a wonder to me that there aren't more suicides when this kind of thing happens.

But for now all one can do is be kind, be patient and try to be perceptive-and be there for anyone who shows signs of severe depression. You don't have to be a specialist but know how to get the person the help they need. 

Another sad day in Newtown.

1 comment:

gael lynch said...

So sad, George. Many people live in the depths of their grief for years and years and you'd never know it, because they're trying so hard to fake it till they make it. Obviously, this gentle soul did all he could to help those around him. What an impact he made! My hope is that that will be his legacy for his family as they move through this awful tragedy. The one and only time I had an exchange with him was on the back trail at Fairfield Hills. He was dressed in a pink tutu, which I think was done as a part of a fundraiser for the Foundation. He immediately engaged in conversation with me! I will never forget that encounter!