Suicide turned Bowman’s life upside down when her husband, an ex Victorian police officer ended his own life in March of 2018. She channelled her grief and confusion into a passion to help others affected by similar circumstances.
She says, “My aim is to walk 3000 kms around Victoria to draw attention to those people left behind after such tragic circumstances. Along the way I will be talking to groups of people, including the Police Officers to try to bring awareness to the life-long damage suicide causes to those left behind.”
According to Lifeline Australia, suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44, the Black Dog Institute estimates that over 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt and more than 3,000 Australians died by suicide in 2017.
The funds she raises will be given to the Victoria Police Mental Health Unit. Bowman says, “I want to do this to save lives and help those who have been left behind, this is for my healing too. It will help me to overcome the trauma by making something good come out of something so tragic.”
Bowman has been invited to speak at the VIC Expo and Gala Lunch and proceeds from the lunch will go to Those left behind. Register for the VIC gala lunch here.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
- QLife on 1800 184 527
