My name is Kevin Finegan. I am 49 years old and am very happily married to Glenda and have a beautiful 18 year old daughter Jasmine. We live in Durban , South Africa.
My Blog is to articulate my experiences on my very unexpected Grief journey following the death of our Son, Darren, on 13 August 2017. It is written for my sanity, to express myself and hopefully heal and process my thoughts/feelings.
One thing my journey is teaching me is that Men and grief are complex companions. There are countless support groups for parents that have lost a child however I am yet to find one that has any men actually attending. My Dad committed suicide in 1996 and I really struggled post that to deal with it. I was told to be strong, I was the head of the house etc. As a 26 year old I saw that as not crying, not showing emotion, looking after the ‘fragile ladies’ in my family. I bottled up most of my feelings until it nearly cost me my career and most frightening was it nearly cost me my marriage. I am hoping with Blog to help anyone on their journey realize we never get over it but we can get through it day by day together.
Love and light.
Well done Kev
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You are an incredible person, always remember that
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Sending love Cuz Kev 💕
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Well done Kevin. I hope that you will find healing in helping others deal with such an enormous loss and pain. Look forward to following your blog.
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Reblogged this on Trish Jackson, Author and commented:
This is my wonderful and amazing nephew. So proud of how he has handled all that life has thrown at him, and I know Glenda, who has suffered so much pain herself, has been a pillar to lean on in the darkest of times.
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Well done on taking the time to open up about your past and your feelings. As a “man” this not always easy but you will inspire many to dig deep and hopefully join you on this journey. I don’t know your entire story and religious standing but I know you as a great man. A humble and committed man. I pray you find solace and peace and that you may transform the thinking of many out there
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Proud of you kid! Day by day the three of you together. Love ya
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So brave Kevin. I am sure your words will inspire other men unable to show their emotions.
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I look forward to reading your blog. You are awesome Kev!! I’m sure your healing journey will inspire others.
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Kev the big guy never gi es us stuff we can’t handle. Out of extreme heat is forged the strongest steel. You are an inspiration.
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It’s always best to express yourself. Our society’s archaic view that men have to be strong by not showing emotion leads to a lot of agressive behaviour and mental illness. This blog you are doing is inspiring Kev and very brave. Well done.
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My Boet. The losing of our beloved Darren has been a watershed for all our family and a Tsunami of epic proportions for you, Glenda and Jazzy. I salute your bravery and honour your heart. Much love. Twisted Sister. xxx
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Hi Kev.
We’re with you bud, as well as Glenda and Jaz – an extension of our own family.
Bullet.
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Sending lots of love always 😘❤️
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Kevin words cannot express our sincere condolences and how proud we are of all three of you, such a strong family…if you ever just want to chat, give us a call…lots of love, Nev and Michelle
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