Doncaster couple raise awareness of mental health in the army after their son took his own life
Bradley was serving in the Royal Engineers, based in Tidworth, when he lost his life to suicide
Last updated 10th Aug 2021
John and Rachel Parks from Doncaster have already raised just over £3,000 in memory of their son, Bradley Parks, who tragically took his own life on 27th July 2019.
The couple want to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and help others who are suffering.
Bradley was serving in 26 Engineer Regiment, part of the Royal Engineers, based in Tidworth and was diagnosed with bipolar in April 2019, just three months before he took his life.
He was in the process of leaving the Army after four years’ service and would have been discharged in February 2020.
His parents raised £900 for SSAFA at their son’s funeral. Between August 2020 and July this year they ran monthly activities to raise money which included raffles, online fundraisers and bake sales, collecting an amazing £3,000.
Rachel Parks said:
“After we got over initial first anniversary, we decided we needed to have a focus. We want to raise awareness about mental health and help others.”
“We hope to continue doing what we can for SSAFA in memory of Bradley. We hope we are doing him proud. He has left a big hole in our hearts and family life, but we will make sure he lives on within us. He will never be forgotten we love and remember him always.”
You can find mental health support near you at www.hubofhope.co.uk