DAD

Research shows that men find it more difficult to talk about their feelings and health than women.

I lost my dad when I was quite young and that has had a huge impact on my life. I have never really talked about his death and its impact on me. I have never really expressed emotions or cried for the loss of my dad – after all I am a MAN. Writing this poem has created space to think about my dad - the beautiful things we had together, the influence he had on the person I am today and the things I wished I had said and done back then.

Writing this poem has also created space to think about myself. I am now around the age my dad was when he died. I still find it difficult to be vulnerable - to be open and honest and show my emotions and feelings (after all that leaves me exposed to hurt and pain). I still find it difficult to talk about hard things. I still find it difficult to reach out to the support that is all around me. I have come a long way on my journey and even though it is difficult, I am more willing to try and do.

This poem and the words I speak are part of this trying and doing and it feels good.

Yours in solidarity with Men’s Health