A boy has cut off his long hair in memory of his sister Michelle who took her own life.
Kieran Monaghan, 13, from Oldcastle, Co Meath chose to raise funds for the suicide prevention and awareness charity Save Our Sons And Daughters.
Kieran’s sister Michelle, 22, tragically took her own life two years ago.
Their mother Lena Monaghan said: “Kieran was extremely close to Michelle and when she died, he started growing his hair which was his way of dealing with his grief.
“During lockdown, he decided to cut his hair for Michelle to help other people with mental health issues and he chose SOSAD (Save Our Sons And Daughters) suicide prevention and awareness charity.
“It was the first decision he has ever made by himself so it really was a huge deal for him.
“When he got his hair cut earlier this week, he saw his reflection and said that he looked like Michelle. He was so proud and we are all so very proud of him.
“We will give SOSAD the money we have raised but we are still looking for any charity who may benefit from seven inches of his hair.”
On Michelle’s second anniversary, Lena is appealing for improved services for those with mental health issues.
“I never had any support from anyone. I had no choice but to do everything alone,” said the devastated mum.”
