Tess

Dear Larkin Family,

I have never felt compelled to write a letter like this before now. I watched Gavin’s and your story on ‘Australian Story’ recently.

It really struck a chord with me as I am a long time sufferer of bi-polar disorder, with terrible episodes of deep depression at times.

I had been indulging in thoughts of suicide at the time I watched your story.

It made me feel ashamed and selfish to have such feelings with people like Gavin fighting so bravely to stay alive.

I am medicated and see a psychiatrist regularly and am not at risk of acting on my feelings of hopelessness.

The grace and dignity with which your family deal with such an unfair situation is inspirational to me. I reflect on some of the things Gavin has said on the program and the courage of all family members. It truly does help me have a better perspective on my own life and family and how precious both are.

Thank you for sharing your story with people, I imagine it wasn’t an easy thing to do.

I wish you all a very happy and peaceful future,

Yours Sincerely,

Tess