National Grief Awareness Week: The heartache of losing a twin

NATIONAL Grief Awareness Week is an opportunity for people to share their experiences of grief, highlight ways to cope and share the support available. 

People experience grief in many different ways and, unfortunately, it is something we will all face at some point in our lives. 

In 2017, the Charlie Watkins Foundation was founded after Charlie Watkins sadly took his life at the age of 22. 

His death shook the worlds of those close to him. One of those worlds was his twin brother, Harry Watkins’, who explains how it affected him. 

Harry said:

“It is difficult to describe the grief I experienced when he passed away, but it felt like a darkness had now shaded my world.” 

Everyone who knew Charlie would describe him as the light in every room thanks to his kindness, bubbly personality and infectious smile. 

Harry continued:

“When he was gone. All of that left with him. An overwhelming sense of grief flooded my life.

“It has been more than five years since mental ill health took Charlie from us. Time is a great healer, however, I still live with grief.”

Both Charlie’s brother and father, Tim, struggled greatly after Charlie’s death. It was their support of each other and the loving people around them who helped during the difficult time.

Harry praised the love and support he received from others, noting that it’s very important for people experiencing grief. 

He said:

“If you know someone who is grieving, it’s important you let them know you are there for them. It’s also important to be patient with them, especially as people experiencing grief can go through many emotions.

“It is unlikely any personal advice can be helpful to someone who is grieving, so that might be wise to avoid. Instead, offering kind words and helping them reflect could be more helpful.

“If you are experiencing grief and need additional support, please contact your local mental health services.”

The Charlie Watkins Foundation helps organisations in their goal to better support the mental health and well-being of young people through funding support thanks to donations. 

If you would like to donate, please do so here.