LIVED EXPERIENCE
Geraldine and Redmond's story: their son, Red Óg
Red Óg Murphy. Footballer, teacher in training, and a young man who lived by two words: courage and belief.
There weren't any signs. Geraldine and Redmond share their son's story so we stop waiting for signs before we ask.
10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day.
We know men reach out for support. We've seen it at the GP, in therapy sessions, at pubs, on sidelines, even in group chats. Men can, and want, to talk. Yet globally, two out of three suicides are by men.
So this World Suicide Prevention Day we have one clear call to action: start those tricky conversations with a man who needs it – then keep them going.
"It can happen to anyone”
“There weren't any signs that he was struggling – he seemed to be achieving all his goals in life." – Geraldine and Redmond Murphy
Red Óg grew up steeped in the GAA. He excelled at Gaelic football, athletics and soccer, and looked to lead on the pitch. He kept a diary of every match, with notes on how he played and where he could improve. Two words stood out: Courage and Belief.
Red Óg died by suicide. He was 21.
That week there was so much going on. He was doing teaching practice, planning for an awards night, considering going to America to play football.
His parents spoke to him every day, and the night before they talked on the phone and over text.
"Chat to you tomorrow," they said. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary.
Since losing him, they've heard from so many people - strangers, friends, neighbours. They all say the same thing: they never saw it coming.
Now Geraldine and Redmond tell his story.
"We tell his story, so others don't feel alone."
Their message to any young man reading this: "If you're going through something, please seek help. You are never a burden. And you are never alone."
And to everyone else – leaders, government, employers, friends and families – they ask you to think what you can do to help the men in your life, old and young.
"This is the real face of men's health. This is our son. His name is Red Óg."
Keeping the conversation going
Movember Conversations lets you practise what comes next – how to keep it going when he brushes it off. Developed with mental health experts, funded by Movember.
Need support?
If you're ever worried that someone's life is in immediate danger, call 999, or go directly to emergency services.
