Matthew Gray, son of Colleen and brother to Kirsty, took his life in 2005, when he was 24 years old.

“It is the worst thing that can happen to a family,” Kirsty said.

“There are so many unanswered questions and they will never be answered.”

From her son’s death Colleen said she had learned that there were lots of people who need help, but sometimes it was not obvious. 

“There are many young people who are depressed,” she said. 

“If you know somebody who is going through a tough time, just being there and talking to them helps.”

“Don’t be afraid to ask them if they are suicidal.”

Kirsty said the walk was a step forward when it came to raising awareness of suicide in the community.

“It is fantastic to see such a large number of people turn out for the walk,” she said. “I really hope it continues.”

Colleen and Kirsty decorated a butterfly and placed it on a memorial wall in honour of Matthew. 

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