Crisis What Crisis? Three Dads Walking on suicide, grief and finding light in the darkest of places
In this episode recorded in 2024 and republished to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2025, Andy is joined by three remarkable men, Andy Airey, Mike Palmer and Tim Owen – better known as Three Dads Walking. All would rather have never met but through a common and tragic bond – the loss of their daughters, Sophie, Beth and Emily, to suicide – they did.
Brought together by a shared grief, these three dads connected and decided to shine a light on the shocking number of young people who take their own lives in the UK.
A 300-mile walk between their homes in Cumbria, Manchester, and Norfolk in 2021 was their first epic venture. A 600-mile walk then followed, and another is planned for this year. So far, over £1m has been raised for the incredible suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS.
Their book – 3 Dads Walking, 300 Miles of Hope - tells the story of the courage and hope they’ve found on those walks. It is out now.
Five lessons you'll learn
The Healing Power of Nature and the therapeutic benefits of spending time outdoors. How immersing oneself in nature's beauty can provide solace and clarity during challenging times.
The Importance of Reaching Out. Whether through friends, family, or professionals, acknowledging the need for help and being open to it is crucial for healing.
Finding Comfort in Work and Routine While grief can disrupt daily life, returning to work or familiar routines can offer a sense of normalcy and purpose.
The Role of Work in Recovery. While returning to work can be beneficial, it isn't an immediate comfort. The Dad's experience underscores the importance of understanding and support in the workplace for those grieving.
The Unwavering Support of Pets. Pets can provide unconditional companionship and encourage individuals to stay active and engaged, even during the darkest times.
Please remember - if you, or anyone you know is having or have had suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to Papyrus UK suicide prevention on 0800 068 4141.
Links
Three Dads Walking: 300 Miles of Hopehttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Three-Dads-Walking-Miles-Hope/dp/1472148444
Papyrus has been campaigning for a suicide-safer internet for nearly twenty years. Do you want to ensure technology companies are held accountable for the safety of users on their platforms?
Download their draft letter to send to your local MP here: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/online-safety-bill-write-to-your-mp/
Send your letter to your MP here: https://www.writetothem.com/
Stream/buy ‘Allies’ by Some Velvet Morning: https://ampl.ink/qp6bm
Some Velvet Morning Website: www.somevelvetmorning.co.uk
Your Daily Practice: Sleep by Myndstream: https://open.spotify.com/track/5OX9XgJufFz9g63o2Dv2i5?si=b2f9397c92084682
Host – Andy Coulson
CWC team: Jane Sankey, Louise Difford, Zach Ellis and Mabel Pickering
With special thanks to Ioana Barbu and the brilliant people at Global
For all PR and guest approaches please contact – podcast@coulsonpartners.com
Key Words #suicide #grief #guilt #recovery #positivity #friendship #hope #walking
Full transcript
https://www.crisiswhatcrisis.com/podcasts/three-dads-walking-on-suicide-grief-and-finding-light-in-the-darkest-of-places/