Today I had the privilege of hearing your presentation ‘3 secrets of resilient people’
This was the first time that I have felt some hope since I suffered a tragedy 7 years ago.
My eldest son Daryl Jones was killed in Yemen in 2013 by a United States drone missile and he was then branded as New Zealand’s first terrorist.
I was hounded by media for a long time wanting a story, which I refused.
The media decided to present their story by putting my whole family’s life in print and on television for all of New Zealand to see.
I wasn’t able to grieve, I was too busy avoiding media and bouts of persecution.
I lost many friends, was judged as a bad father and felt such guilt and shame.
My marriage ended and not long after she died of breast cancer which I feel was brought on by the stress of the incident.
I went to a counsellor looking for help but he laughed when I shared my story stating it sounded like an episode from days of our lives - I walked out and never sought help again.
Recently just when I thought I was starting to heal, Stuff released my story again to coincide with the sentencing on the mosque shooter – I was forced to relive the whole incident again.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/world/middle-east/10310496/A-Kiwi-lads-death-by-drone
I had tears in my eyes today when you told the story of the loss of your precious daughter.
Your words gave me such hope
God I wish I had known your 3 points for surviving 6 years ago.
I am so thankful that you are in a position to help countless people who are hurting - being able to give them a lifeline which can change their lives.
I have taken hold of your advice and will make it part of my life to finally heal and move on from this nightmare.
So thank you for your valuable words Dr Lucy, you are such an amazing person.
Kind regards,
John Jones