It ain’t weak to speak.
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It’s a pretty simple message but one which hit home recently at an event held in honour of a young man who lost his life to suicide.
Ingenia Gardens’ second annual Tradies Breakfast was a chance to remember Perry Meredith, who died tragically in November 2016, and also raise money for the suicide prevention and mental health awareness organisation Livin’.
For Perry’s dad Mark, mum Liz and sister Kendell, the event capped an emotional week headlined by the wedding of their son and brother Jarryd. And being able to talk through the ups and downs is helping.
“Liz and I met Sam a little over 12 months ago now when things were really tough for us and we were in a place where certainly nobody wants to find themselves,” Mr Meredith said.
“But after talking to Sam and sharing a lot of stories I guess it’s one big family and that’s how I feel about everyone that knew Perry.”
Livin’ co-founder Sam Webb, who has become a friend and confidante to the Meredith family, was on hand to spread the word and support Perry’s mates.
“Livin wouldn’t be where it is without the support of amazing people from all walks of life. Dubbo have come together for Perry’s family and the wider community and that’s terrific,” he said.
“I never knew Perry personally but mental health doesn’t discriminate. Perry was a young guy and Livin’s mantra is ‘It Ain’t Weak To Speak’ and the message hopefully resonates clear and well with these young guys.
“Livin’ and all these other mental health organisations wouldn’t exist in a perfect world because people wouldn’t be dying from suicide, but that isn’t the case and we’re very humble with the work we’re doing.
“It’s one thing to tell people to speak up and ask for help but we’re never taught that at schools, that’s a whole different kettle of fish that we try and educate people on.
“Sometimes you don’t have answers and I guess that’s the hardest thing we deal with in mental health, but that’s okay.
“I’m very grateful to Mark and Liz for educating me on some their journey and I thank them for that.”
