A brave band of family and friends who have lost loved ones to suicide came together for a special memorial service at the Volunteer Marine Rescue Building (VMR) in Cannonvale on Saturday morning.
While the mood was sombre, a shared sentiment of hope and healing created solace and comfort for those grieving.
Pastor Olwyn Harris from Proserpine Liberty Church officiated the service, which was emceed by Megan Mattingley, a counsellor from Bowen.
Both women offered a powerful message that reassured loved ones that all emotions are valid and acceptable, that this is a unique type of grief that often invokes feelings of anger and pain.
During the ceremony Brendon and Jess from YWAM played a beautiful accompaniment to some poignant moments, giving attendees the opportunity to sit and reflect.
Afterwards, sunflowers, which are a symbol of hope, were given to everyone and a special moment took place at the water’s edge where everyone let go of their sunflower and watched as it drifted away.
“In no way is this letting your loved one go,” said Pastor Harris.
“This is a symbol of letting go of the pain and the anger while still holding close memories of your loved one.”
A light morning tea was then served inside and everyone had the opportunity to chat with others who had a shared experience.
There were also two counsellors present who were available to talk to anyone and help where needed.
“It’s about supporting the community and providing a way for people who have lost a loved one to suicide to honour and remember them,” said Mel Turner from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN).
“It’s a way to connect and express loss in some way.”
The community memorial service was an initiative of WSPN who actively help those effected by suicide here in the region.
WSPN offer free counselling to anyone impacted by suicide. If you would like to reach out you can call 07 4945 2858.
If you are worried about a loved one or this article has raised any issues for you, then reach out to one of the support services below.
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Matt Stokes and Mel Turner from WSPN, Olwyn Harris from Liberty Church in Proserpine and Counsellor Megan Mattingley
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