Image: Me and my superhero dad, Wayneo
On Father’s Day we celebrate the special dads and father figures in our lives. We buy them nice things and spend time with our kids, making handmade cards and macaroni wrists bands to show our dads and husbands how much we love them.
We also recognise and remember the dads who are no longer with us.
But what about the dads who have lost a child? Like my dad. How do they feel on Father’s Day?
My dad lost his only son, my brother, four years ago this November. Alcohol addiction took Ryan’s life at 34. So Father’s Day for my dad is gut-wrenching. For a better word; it sucks. It’s a reminder of what my parents have lost.
Image: Me, Dad and my beautiful brother Ryan in 2010
As kids we always assumed dads were like superheros: invincible, unbreakable and could never be beaten down. So today, I’d like to think of all the beautiful, warm, loving, funny and caring dads in Adelaide who have been beaten down and have been broken and aren’t invincible. These dads are extra special. They are real superheros.
And today, I’m sending all my love, to you.
Hayley xx
Image: My dad with Ryan
Beautiful words and thoughts Hayley. Father’s Day will always be bitter sweet for my husband and many other Dads whose children are no longer with them. Here’s wishing all of those dads a gentle day today.
Sending lots of love to Scott for this father’s Day and every one after that xx
Love you all .beautiful words Hayley. miss ryan soo much. Never have been so affected as the loss of such a gorgeous guy. My heart still breaks. Think of you often xoxox ?
You’re beautiful Gaye, and a great friend to mum and dad! Thank you xx
So beautiful Hayley. Ryan was a brother to be proud of and no doubt both Father’s Day and Mother’s Day would be very difficult for your lovely Dad and Mum. How lucky they are to have you, Jimmy, Austin and Alfie to give them love and support when they need it. Ann xxx