Family of Jack Edgar running from Derry to Dublin to raise awareness about mental health and suicide

Jack, who died suddenly in December 2022, aged just 20, has been described by his parents Sabrina and Tony as ‘kind, funny, caring, and thoughtful’ and a young man who would have ‘done anything for anyone’.

This Saturday at a minute past midnight Jack’s father Tony, brother TJ, and uncles John, James, and Michael will set off from the Guildhall with the aim of reaching the Aviva Stadium in time for World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday.

"My wife, Sabrina, and I have chosen this date as we felt it would have the most impact to raise awareness for those in our country suffering from mental health issues and potentially suicidal thoughts.

"We want to show people they are not alone, and that help is available. We also want to offer comfort to those families who have lost loved ones to this hidden disease and remind them that they will always be remembered,” said Tony.

The Edgars are Ireland season-ticket holders and Jack was a devoted supporter. Their arrival in Dublin will coincide with Ireland’s clash with Greece on Tuesday when they hope World Suicide Prevention Day can be marked.

"The reason we have started this is because we tragically lost my eldest son, Jack, to suicide on the December 27, 2022 - the worst day of our family's lives.

"Our struggle is now waking up every day and asking countless questions: What could I have done differently? Why didn’t he ask for help?” the family said.

Tony says he had intended completing the gruelling 150 mile run alone but picked up an injury earlier in the year.

"A couple of months ago I ran to Strabane, did the half-marathon and ran back. I probably shouldn't have and hurt myself and haven't fully recovered. But the brothers are all going to do a bit for me,” he said.

Since Jack passed away the Edgars have raised thousands of pounds for a range of suicide prevention and mental health charities in his memory.

“It affects so many families...to do something at the Aviva would be special,” said Tony, pointing to the hundreds of people who die by suicide on the island each year with a large proportion of them males.

"At the Aviva it will probably be around 75 per cent men-orientated, especially young men. That's why we are seeking to do something with that audience,” said Tony.

In poignant remembrance of their much-missed son, the family declared: “Jack was kind, funny, caring, and thoughtful. He would have done anything for anyone, and we will not let one rash decision define the man he was.

"We are blessed with the support from our great family and friends, which gave us the courage to speak up and raise awareness on this matter.

"We hope people support us and this event, but most importantly, we hope this message reaches anyone suffering from mental health issues or suicidal thoughts and gives them the strength to seek help.”

Contact Lifeline 08088088000; Samaritans 02871265511 or Freephone 116123; and Childline 08001111.

In RoI contact Pieta House 1800247247 or text HELP (51444); TEXT Crisis Textline Ireland (50808); or ring Samaritans 116-123.

Derry family raises over £12,000 for charity in memory of Jack