A Personal Story - Don's Video
Donald T Ritchie OAM (a retired serviceman from the 2nd world war).
Don has lived near a scenic beauty spot in NSW for over 40 years and
has witnessed a significant number of people whose state of mind was
questionable. Don and his wife Moya have offered their kindness and
love to hundreds of people who have contemplated taking their life by
engaging in a conversation and offering a chat over a cup of tea or
breakfast. In 2006 Don was awarded an Order of Australia for his
services to the community through all the lives he has saved and a
medal for bravery from the Royal Humane Society for rescue work.
A Personal Story - Rose's Video
Late one night Rose came across a stranger who was contemplating taking his life on the rooftop of his house. The easiest option would have been to keep on walking by but Rose plucked up the courage to have a conversation with the 22 year old guy and prevent him from taking his life.
A Personal Story - Dave's Video
Dave worked for the Melbourne Ambulance association as a medic and was at the forefront of witnessing people who had self harmed or taken their life. Following his brave work, Dave has since changed his career and is dealing with his own life after being diagnosed with manic depression.
A Personal Story - Graeme's Video
Graeme Cowan, author of BACK FROM THE BRINK suffered from a serious depressive illness for several years, during which time he was frequently suicidal. Graeme recovered through a combination of exercise, meditation and therapeutic support.
A Personal Story - Mark's Video
Dr Mark Rowe is the Clinical Director of The Lawson Clinic. Dr Rowe was previously the Acting Director of a Mental Health Unit at a major public hospital and was also in private practice. He was the Director of ECT at Redland Hospital, Brisbane and has trained at the Black Dog Institute where he has visiting rights. Dr Rowe has a particular interest in sub-typing depressive illnesses, bipolar disorder, psychopharmacology and mood disorders.
A Personal Story - Karin's Video
Karin de Vos.
Karin left school early and was never settled or content, always feeling like she was living for other people. She finally had a breakdown, parted with her husband and embarked on a journey of self awareness. Karin established Nurture House - a website and community dedicated to celebrating the unique gifts of children.