tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751346706285159352024-02-08T02:41:30.236+11:00Gavin LarkinMessages 4 Gavhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03750904349595856270noreply@blogger.comBlogger239125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-88109069286724238892011-10-14T10:45:00.001+11:002011-10-14T10:45:29.101+11:00Chris and Sarah Basten<div>You have done many amazing, cool and (at times) tough things. You have done these activities with many people around the world who clearly love and respect you. We treasure the things done together: we have partied, danced, dressed up (there was a merkin once, I recall), dined, skied, sampled wines, done The Hunter, done the beach, played touch footy with the kids, hit golf balls, and we’ve talked frankly about life and about death. Your radical acceptance of life and death is more than heartening, Gav. I’ve already told many people how impressive and inspiring your approach is. You know that you have put enough fuel in the tanks of your three kids for the rest of their lives – with your enthusiasm and lust for life and Love – and Maz can amply be there for tunes ups. I also want you to know that we (and your family and other friends) will be there for them for as long as they need. </div><div> </div><div>I know you told me a couple of times how you got RUOK Day up and running but I still don’t get it. Within a year, you had media partners, major sponsors and health agencies and NGO partners. What I don’t get, I think, is that I don’t know anyone else who could have done that. When people admire you personally and respect your work and see your vision, they will do things for you and with. And, man, you deliver all those things. You have kicked some big goals and hit some long shots. I guess some bunkers are too steep to hit out of.</div><div> </div><div>We treasure our times together and look forward to more good stuff with Maz and the kids.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-5838789819800420352011-10-12T10:02:00.001+11:002011-10-12T10:02:31.583+11:00Nikki & Steve Freeman<div>To the Larkin family,</div><div><br /></div><div>We only watched our recorded Australian story episode a couple of nights ago and were expecting a moving story about RUOK? day and depression. To say we were moved beyond words is a massive understatement. Our thoughts are with you all during this time and the coming months as you begin the long journey of healing and rebuilding your life. Gav was an inspiration and will always be with you in your hearts.....how lucky I feel to have been touched by his presence and story. Thank you Gavin. Nik & steve Freeman x</div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-33526146224078170422011-10-12T10:00:00.000+11:002011-10-12T10:01:10.208+11:00Amy Godfrey<div>Dear Maz, Gus, Josie, Van, Aya, Del and Family,</div><div>I had the rare privilege of working alongside Gavin as his EA for 3 years prior to him falling ill. In that time I got to know him and each of you very well. Gav's ability to love unconditionally, listen wholeheartedly and command trust and respect set him apart from so many others. Gav was a giant amongst men. I'm eternally grateful I had the opportunity to know Gav and to be involved in RUOK? Day and the continuance of his legacy.</div><div>Maz, I should have told you more often how amazing you are – you are gorgeous, loving, caring, determined and strong. My thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow. </div><div>Much love to you all</div><div>Amy </div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-7019047775624948522011-10-03T07:11:00.001+11:002011-10-03T07:11:38.278+11:00Nadine Hooper<div>Hi Maryanne,</div><div>Our thoughts are with you.</div><div>Nadine and Bryce (New Zealand - ex Laguna Beach)</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-80728749848280298262011-10-03T07:10:00.001+11:002011-10-03T07:10:56.637+11:00Theresa<div>To Gavin's family and friends</div><div> </div><div>I am so sorry for your loss. </div><div> </div><div>I never knew Gavin, but I wish I had...</div><div> </div><div>It sounds like he was an incredible person and all who knew him were so lucky</div><div> </div><div>God Bless you and R.I.P lovely man</div><div> </div><div>Love Theresa x</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-82816692103477387722011-10-03T07:09:00.002+11:002011-10-03T07:10:08.849+11:00Anon<div>I heard about the passing of the RuOK? Founder at a work meeting where a colleague’s child was attending the funeral. I then read the transcripts and more about the Larkin founder. This is so inspiring and my thoughts are with the Larkin family today.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-69086388023598306992011-10-03T07:09:00.001+11:002011-10-03T07:09:20.000+11:00Iain Good<div>In the words of Gavin’s favourite band, today was “ A Beautiful Day”.</div><div>To see, hear and feel the depth of positive emotion that surrounded Gavin today made one feel privileged to be included in Gavin’s life.</div><div>As I know many of you have done today, Gavin has challenged us to squeeze every ounce from life.</div><div>He certainly did in his 43.</div><div>Thanks Gavin.</div><div>Iain</div><div>xx</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-72622926592777694392011-10-03T07:07:00.000+11:002011-10-03T07:08:34.161+11:00Louise Woodbury<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">Maryanne, Gus, Josie, Van<br /><br />Thank you. Today has been a remarkable day. You really are an extraordinary family. Your courage, your strength, and your love for Gav is something that I will cherish forever. I’m so grateful that Gav got to know just how much he was loved by all of you and that today, you all got to see, hear, and feel how much he loved all of you.<br /><br />A very special day – and I guess Gav is loving the fact that he gets to travel around with all of in our cars while we listen to his Playlist. Have felt like he’s sitting in the passenger seat singing, laughing, and saying hey life is to be enjoyed – let’s step it up.<br /><br />Much love to all of you</span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-46292549127034020392011-10-03T07:06:00.000+11:002011-10-03T07:07:20.560+11:00Art Antonious<div>To Gavin’s Family, friends and everyone involved with RUOK?,</div><div> </div><div>I would like to thank you and Gavin. I never met him, however I saw Australian Story and his legacy with RUOK? Makes me feel like I knew Gavin personally as a close friend and mate.</div><div>I continue to apply his message daily where possible in my community with outstanding results and heart moving experiences. It would make Gavin, family and everyone involved with RUOK?very proud indeed.</div><div> </div><div>Thank you from bottom of my heart</div><div> </div><div>Art Antonious</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-73443828421226951122011-10-03T07:05:00.000+11:002011-10-03T07:06:22.241+11:00Victoria Leontios<div>Gavin -</div><div> </div><div>Thank you for the legacy you have left and the difference you have made, and, continue to make to the planet. You are one extraordinary human being. May you be at peace in knowing this.</div><div> </div><div>Love to your family.</div><div> </div><div>Victoria</div><div> </div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-23201433504567880992011-09-26T22:35:00.001+10:002011-09-26T22:35:57.725+10:00Nicola SmithI worked with Gavin for one year at thebrandshop and he was one of those rare bosses that challenges you as an individual and sees the value of each of us. He encouraged everyone to be their 'authentic' selves and for us to challenge ourselves of what you can achieve. What a great bloke and my thoughts are with you all and send you my love. NicolaAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-53851686403789980392011-09-25T20:49:00.000+10:002011-09-25T20:50:09.669+10:00Susan Mackenzie<div>To Gavin's Wife and Children family and Friends,</div><div> </div><div>No words can possibly express the Heartfelt sympathy that Gavin's untimely death has generated. Please feel some small comfort now and in the future in knowing that total strangers are thinking about you all and feeling your sorrow. Gavin will forever be remembered for instigating a life saving and invaluable intervention program in RU-OK....how proud you all must be.....how incredibly sad! </div><div> </div><div>Susan</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-74415960949022969482011-09-25T20:48:00.001+10:002011-09-25T20:48:57.047+10:00Sue & Shane Ellsmore<div>Hi Gavin,</div><div> </div><div>Thank you for being so supportive of myself and Shane. We thank you for everything you have done for everyone to live a happy and long life. Shane was very proud of you and for the time that you shared with us. We will miss you dearly, and not stop thinking of you. You are a special person. </div><div> </div><div>All our love,</div><div> </div><div>Sue & Shane Ellsmore</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-40068792275028045022011-09-25T20:47:00.000+10:002011-09-25T20:48:03.293+10:00Buzz & Krista Shaw<div>Maryanne,</div><div>So so sorry to hear about Gavin's passing.. Our hearts are breaking for you and your family.</div><div>We are thinking of you all and sending you lots and lots of LOVE.</div><div><br /></div><div>Much Love from us both,</div><div>Buzz & Krista</div><div>Laguna Beach</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-26655221396275537242011-09-25T20:46:00.001+10:002011-09-25T20:46:47.274+10:00Sarah-Jane Aitken<div>To Gavin’s wife,</div><div> </div><div>I watched Australian Story and met your man for the first time. I made my Husband watch the repeat show….Gavin, in Australian Story, was the Father I WANT my Husband to be.</div><div> </div><div>Sure Gavin’s legacy was R U OK? Day, and you and his children….but just know HE touched my heart and passed on some tips for being PRESENT with your children; telling them “I love you” and being on the other end of the video camera. I ALWAYS seem to be the one behind the camera creating memories and stories for my children. I told my Husband how he too, can be on the filming end and still make comment about what’s going on etc. That, to me, is being PRESENT in the moment….in the goings on, so your children can look back and hear their Dad’s voice and comments about the moment on film.</div><div> </div><div>Please show this email to your children when they are older. Their Dad, affected other CHILDREN’s lives…..not just those who will benefit from R U OK? Day.</div><div> </div><div>Thanks Gavin (you legend) ….more than my words can convey!</div><div> </div><div>Warm regards to those who knew him,</div><div> </div><div>Sarah-Jane.</div><div>Mum to 4yr old Tomas and 18month old Ainsley and wife of Cameron.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-31051732393775313602011-09-25T20:45:00.001+10:002011-09-25T20:45:27.590+10:00AnonThere is only a special few in this world that can not only reach but touch those that are "untouchable", Gavin is one of these. We are so lucky to have had you.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-80772307652694096612011-09-23T20:27:00.000+10:002011-09-23T20:28:30.179+10:00Alicia Goldstien ( Whitehouse )<div>Hi Maryanne,</div><div> It's been about ten years since I last spoke to you. Life has changed since.</div><div>You have been in my thoughts since hearing about R U OK a few years ago. I can't put into words, my heart is just so sad for you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Seeing you on Australian story, was very touching. Gavin was so brave to share your story. The happier times, studying fashion together have been flooding my mind. I pray that the angels above will bring you and your family peace and strength. Would like to re connect in the future.</div><div><br /></div><div>Love </div><div>Alicia Goldstien</div><div>Jewellery by a farmer's daughter</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-47723420936072266112011-09-23T20:19:00.001+10:002011-09-23T20:19:29.597+10:00Kate Thornley<div>My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family and friends of Gavin.</div><div>Warm regards,</div><div>Kate Thornley</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-82782214289045618822011-09-23T20:14:00.000+10:002011-09-23T20:15:17.359+10:00Bee Smith Gilbert<div>I have not been able to get Gavin and his family off my mind since I watched his story. I posted the RUOK day on my blog.</div><div>One thing is for sure, Gavin had a very special family to support him through everything.</div><div>My thoughts are with you all.</div><div>RUOK will not be forgotten and the world will be a better place because of Gavin Larkin.</div><div>My thoughts and love to the Larkin's.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bee x</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-8303961376744224742011-09-22T22:33:00.000+10:002011-09-22T22:34:08.548+10:00Meagan Roberts<div>Dear Larkin Family,</div><div>I only just watched Gavin's story on ABC's iView.</div><div>What a terrible, heartbreaking loss for you all, and especially his beautiful children who so adored him.</div><div>Sending you my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Thank you for sharing his story with us all.</div><div>Meg.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-25571295397246956462011-09-22T22:32:00.001+10:002011-09-22T22:32:59.112+10:00Tess<div>Dear Larkin Family,</div><div> </div><div>I have never felt compelled to write a letter like this before now. I watched Gavin’s and your story on ‘Australian Story’ recently.</div><div>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.</div><div>I had been indulging in thoughts of suicide at the time I watched your story.</div><div>It made me feel ashamed and selfish to have such feelings with people like Gavin fighting so bravely to stay alive.</div><div>I am medicated and see a psychiatrist regularly and am not at risk of acting on my feelings of hopelessness.</div><div>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.</div><div> </div><div>Thank you for sharing your story with people, I imagine it wasn’t an easy thing to do.</div><div> </div><div>I wish you all a very happy and peaceful future,</div><div> </div><div>Yours Sincerely,</div><div> Tess</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-41086231196933497062011-09-22T22:31:00.001+10:002011-09-22T22:31:18.048+10:00Nicole McInnes<div>Hi Gavin, </div><div><br /></div><div>We met only once when you presented to me when I was working for AAPT. I am currently on maternity leave and in February started a blog (it seemed I missed my former creative life at SOM too much). Anyway through the blogging connections I've made I was asked to write a post for RUOK? Day, which I wrote on the weekend and plan to post on Thursday. </div><div><br /></div><div>I then watched Australian Story tonight and found out it was you behind RUOK and about your illness. I wanted to let you know I will commit to promoting RUOK day in anyway I can. I am attending the event in Sydney on Thursday but I am guessing you won't be there. I know you have probably heard this before but you are an amazingly inspirational human being and I realise now that I missed a chance by not getting to work with you and know you better. If only I'd listened to you when you ran into me after the meeting!</div><div><br /></div><div>My family's thoughts are with you and your amazing family. Thank you for your creative brilliance which will leave a legacy that not only inspires people to be true to themselves and live a more meaningful life, but will actually save the lives of individuals, and the emotional lives of the people who love them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Warmest regards, </div><div><br /></div><div>Nicole McInnes</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-74774351462467387812011-09-22T22:29:00.000+10:002011-09-22T22:30:11.203+10:00Darryle & Gloria Brown<div>We happened to watch Australian Story and we found you – we saw you and we got your message in an instant. </div><div>We moved to the lounge after dinner ... glass of wine, shoes off and just relaxing and there you appeared on Australian Story and changed our life in an instant. We could not take our eyes of you – we were so impressed by you and could see your light and the goodness you radiated... mind you through the TV... imagine you in real life!! We kept looking at each other understanding you and realising your words were golden. We were crushed to learn you were sick... we did not want that for you .. nor for your son. We only wanted you to be strong and well so that you could keep enjoying your life and the blessings you had surrounding you. I have lost my mother to cancer and we fought with all we had - but we lost too.</div><div> </div><div>You knew how to live life and saw the value in life itself. You will not be forgotten, your hard work and effort is fruitful and your family should hold their heads up high and be extremely proud of what you achieved in your short life mate.</div><div>Darryle & Gloria Browne</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-4259886813009486522011-09-22T22:28:00.001+10:002011-09-22T22:28:58.385+10:00John Derks<div>It is with great sadness that I received the news of Gavin’s passing away, this inspirational man has touched mine and no doubt many other lives.</div><div>May his family take comfort in the fact his legacy will go on and help many people.</div><div>Rest in Peace Gavin with the knowledge that you have made this sometimes troubled world a better place for many people me being one of them.</div><div> </div><div>Thank you Gavin for being such a special human being.</div><div> </div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-675134670628515935.post-75783179425250478842011-09-22T22:20:00.001+10:002011-09-22T22:20:55.622+10:00David Oliver<div><br /></div><div>Never in my life have I been so touched by somebody like Gavin Larkin. What an incredibly unselfish and inspirational man. </div><div>Everybody has a hero at some point in their life and for me after 40 years Gav is it. I now feel I must make a difference or help </div><div>somebody just as you have done. I truly thank you for making a difference in my life and inspiring me to move on past my failings </div><div>and mistakes. You are truly amazing Gav. My deepest sympathy to the family. Keep your chin up Gus. He loved you mate and would </div><div>not want to see you too sad. </div><div><br /></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0