MENTAL HEALTH FROM A FAMILY PERSPECTIVE
Posted on Oct 10, 2016
A very powerful and personal presentation by Violet Colja on mental health; on their family's personal heart-break after her sister Mel's suicide; their coping with the grief and loss, but ensuring that Mel's story 'small things' was finished and published to help people around the world with this major issue .
The cover of this remarkable book belies its hidden and fascinating story of a little boy who begins to have problems with his inner demons and the effect it has on his whole life. Sadly the author, Mel Tregonning, committed suicide before it was completed. However Mel's family was determined to see the project through and were helped immeasurably by Shaun Tan who gave generously of his time to complete the illustrations. It took two years after Mel's passing but the book has now been published and has received wide acclaim for the insights it provides into the struggles people have. It is unique and all the more compelling because it has no words, just pictures. This has given it a universal appeal and wide acceptance both in Australia and overseas. It is one well worth a look at.
I bought one from Violet and found it fascinating in its simplicity and its portrayal of a very difficult and often taboo subject.ED
Violet at the start of her very moving presentation, never heard such quiet from a meeting members and guests!
Violet getting expressive during her presentation .
Rotarian Leigh presenting Violet with her thank you gift after her excellent presentation, wishing her and her family all the best for the future .
