Day 26 – The Samaritans
When I was in hospital, with my kidneys failing and my mind sinking into decline, afraid I was going to die, I turned to The Samaritans.
They are without a doubt one of the best organisations out there for helping to prevent suicide in people who are vulnerable. They guided me through nights when I couldn’t sleep and when all I could think of was the end. At the time I had hoped that I could turn to the Crisis Team in Leicestershire but when I phoned I was not registered and I found that they could not help me.
The Samaritans however had no rules and regulations about who was in their remit and they were there for me the whole time with unconditional support. I rang them on several occasions, usually within the small hours of the morning when I could not sleep and had no hope left.
I had brought myself to the edge. I had taken an overdose, not the kind that is a cry for help, but the kind that is a genuine attempt to meet one’s maker. My kidneys were failing me, they had reduced to a functioning rate of just a quarter of what they had been. I admit it, I was scared, terrified in fact but The Samaritans helped me through.
Although i did not say I was a Christian or had ever donated to their cause they offered me all the comfort they could. I had tried to kill myself but they still wanted to help to make sure I never did it again. They listened to my ills, they heard all of my sins and they did not judge.
I recommend them to anyone who is thinking of ending their life. They offer a friendly ear at the end of a phone that is impartial. When you fear that you cannot turn to family for fear of upsetting them with your dark thoughts they are there to light the way.
If you are feeling blue or in any way suicidal ring them now on 08457 90 90 90. They are open 24 hours a day and they will not judge you, no matter how dark your thoughts.
