UNTIMELY DEATH OF WILLIAM CODD

FOLLOWING the recent publication of this article by Charlie Brooks in the Daily Telegraph, the Irish racing world was shocked to learn of the tragic death of leading point-to-point handler and trainer Willie Codd.

His untimely death is especially felt by his loving and supportive family to whom we extend our deepest sympathies.

Willie had shown amazing strength of character to speak publicly about depression and to highlight the issue. No doubt that fortitude and bravery has helped others to overcome their own battles with depression.

This particular state of mind is one of the greatest scourges of our society, and the need to speak up about it has never been greater.

This week I engaged with students at the CAFRE Enniskillen College on the subject of ‘Caring For Each Other’, while the college provided lots of good information for students about various lifestyle options that they could explore to enhance their mental wellbeing. We cannot do enough of this.

The problem of depression is not unique to young people – it affects people of all ages, in all social groups, and all genders. For most people they will go through life without suffering depression. For a very significant portion of the population, it will be an issue at some time.

It is imperative that people reach out to others for help in times of need, and equally important that everyone offers a hand to people who are suffering. Together we can all work to make the world a better place for everyone.

We remember Willie Codd with great affection and offer our deepest condolences to his immediate family who are so devastated by his death. May he rest in peace. L.P.

We are grateful to Dr Adrian McGoldrick for his constant support and guidance