

Greta Thunberg sets sail for Gaza / Mary Ann Kenny on loss, psychosis and healing
Jun 5, 2025
Mary Ann Kenny, an academic and author of 'The Episode,' shares her harrowing journey through grief and psychosis following her husband's sudden death. She candidly discusses the challenges of navigating mental health treatment and emphasizes the importance of compassionate care. Joining her, Irish Times reporter Ella Sloane tackles current affairs, including Greta Thunberg's humanitarian mission to Gaza and insights into the happiness of Irish teenagers. This conversation blends personal resilience with pressing global issues.
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Life Before Sudden Loss
- Mary Ann Kenny describes her life before her husband's sudden death as joyful and complete with a settled family life.
- Her husband John was a humorous, intelligent man with a strong sense of justice and was a stay-at-home dad.
The Day John Died
- John collapsed and died while jogging, leaving Mary Ann in shock having to learn the devastating news from authorities.
- She had to tell her children the truth of their father's death, a heart-wrenching moment personally recounted.
Telling the Children
- Mary Ann recalls the moment she told her children that their father was dead and how she kept apologizing to them.
- She describes feeling as if she was shattering their lives and blaming herself, a burden many grieving parents carry.