Out of loss, can come purpose

A local family channelled their grief into a golf day fundraiser to remember keen golfer, Barrie Tingley. Paul Tingley wrote and shared the family’s story with us.

“This past year has been incredibly tough for our family, following the loss of our dear Barrie.  

“Losing a loved one to mental health struggles is a pain no one should have to endure. But from tragedy, we found purpose.

“In honour of Barrie, we came together to organise a charity golf day in support of Suffolk Mind, an organisation dedicated to providing mental health support and resources.

“Barrie was a keen and talented golfer. He loved nothing more than to shoot a round with his friends and family and add his wicked wit to the occasion with well-chosen banter, masking the true pain he constantly battled during his adult life. 

“It was his release from his pain and suffering and what better testament to Barrie than to arrange an occasion in which he would have been in his element.

“What happened next was truly overwhelming.

“Businesses and individuals alike, all of whom knew Barrie personally, stepped forward with generosity beyond words.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed, whether by donating, playing golf, or simply spreading awareness, to help us raise an absolutely incredible £22,365 for Suffolk Mind.  

“This was more than just a fundraiser. It was a huge collective statement that mental health matters; that no one should feel alone in their struggles; that together, we can make a difference.

“Thank you to everyone who stood by us on this journey. Let’s continue the conversation for many years to come, help to raise awareness, and support those who need it most.”

Jon, Suffolk Mind’s CEO, wanted to thank them for their support:

“I want to say a massive thank you to Steve and Paul Tingley who organised a golf day in memory of their brother, Barrie. They have raised, along with their supporters, £22,365 including Gift Aid.

“I know that they would like to extend their thanks to the 19 hole sponsors, nine auction prize sponsors and donors and the 20 raffle prize donors for their support. And of course, to everybody who came out on the golf day itself.

“I know that they’ve had a difficult year since they lost their dear brother, Barrie.

“As they say, losing a loved one to mental health struggles or mental ill health is a pain that nobody should endure and they’re absolutely right.

“We want to be here for everybody that is struggling with their mental health no matter who they are, where they live in Suffolk and whatever their circumstances. Raising money in this way helps us to do exactly that.

“For example, £22,000 could fund our Helpline for nearly half a year or help hundreds of people to access subsidised or free counselling services so that more families don’t have to endure what Steve, Paul and their families have gone through.

“Barrie was a keen golfer, and what better way to honour his memory and to help people in Suffolk by running a golf day.

“We’re incredibly grateful to them and to everybody who has stepped up and supported it.”

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In memory of Barrie Jon Tingley

11 December 1969 – 29 March 2024