The Inspiration Award, Sinead Gibson, sponsor McDonald’s
A foster carer who tragically lost her own daughter to suicide has been put forward for The Inspiration Award for her tireless campaigning on mental health and suicide prevention.
Her nominator said: “On May 10, 2020, Sinead Gibson’s beloved daughter Diva Gibson, sadly lost her life to suicide.
“Despite this unimaginable tragedy, Sinead has campaigned tirelessly since that day to spread kindness, awareness of suicide prevention and support for those with mental health issues, as well as anyone else who needs help.”
She added: “Last year Sinead created and produced the Every Little Thing Festival to support wellness and mental health, and it is planned to be held annually as near as possible to September 10, which is Diva’s birthday and World Suicide Prevention Day.”
The aim is to provide a totally safe, supported festival, where people can learn more about mental health care, suicide prevention, and receive help if needed.
Her nominator added: “I went to the Every Little Thing festival to support Sinead and was moved to tears a number of times.
“It was very clear to me that Sinead’s carefully chosen expert speakers were really connecting with the audience.
“It was a very inspiring and moving event and remarkable that a grieving mother could have so much love and kindness in her to pull it all together.”
Another nominator said: “Sinead is a true inspiration and has been for many years. She is a long-standing foster carer opening her home and her heart to young people who need it.
“She worked with me as the driving force to successfully get Trust House open, a specialist counselling and support service for survivors of rape and sexual abuse.
“More recently following the tragic death of her daughter she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the risk of suicide and created from scratch a wonderful and special event.
“The Every Little Thing Festival will be repeated this year. She’s a very special person and a true asset to Reading.”
The Inspiration Award, sponsored by McDonald’s, celebrates someone who has inspired a community initiative or inspired others to do the same. Or simply someone who is a positive role model for young people.
Do you know someone who is an inspiration to others? Nominate them at porawards.co.uk
