ROdown Blog

Everyday Heroes

By Brittany, ReachOut intern

With over 7 billion people in the world it can be hard to feel like you can make a difference. I am constantly striving to better myself so that I may be able to be a positive influence on others. When I came across Donald Ritchie’s story I realised that you don't necessarily need a degree or money to be an inspiration to people and save lives.

Donald Ritchie is an 85 year old man that lives close to the Gap Park in Watson’s Bay. For over 50 years he has helped hundreds of people in distress by simply walking over and talking to them. Every morning he gets up and looks out at the view, and from time to time he sees people in distress, who might be contemplating suicide. When he was younger he would physically hold people back. These days he talks with them and invites them over for a cup of tea. It’s this simple act of kindness that has saved over an estimated 160 people from taking their lives. Ritchie commented on people hearing his story and being inspired, “I think it also helps people to realise the power of a kind word, a simple smile, a moment to listen, a helping hand, and that they shouldn’t be afraid to speak to someone who they think might be in trouble, in need. It’s important not to be too busy to miss moments that are really important.”

Ritchie’s acts have been acknowledged and he was rewarded 2011 Australian of the Year award for Australia’s Local Hero. Through his publicity, he hopes that people will understand the need to reach out to people, and not stand by when they need help. To read more about Ritchie’s story check out the website Out of the Shadows and Into the Light, a website dedicated to suicide prevention: http://www.outoftheshadows.org.au/Home/My-Story/Don-Ritchie

You don't need to have a psychology degree or be a doctor to make a difference in someones life. Sometimes all it takes is for you to ask if they are ok. Donald Ritchie is a perfect example of an ordinary man who has helped others by being a compassionate guy, who’s not afraid of listening to someone else’s problems.

Who inspires you? I would love to hear your stories on people you look up to and why!

Need help?

There is always someone available to talk to.

Contact Kids Help Line (1800 55 1800) - a free and confidential, telephone counseling service for 5 to 25 year olds in Australia (http://www.kidshelp.com.au)

Lifeline (13 11 14) - a free and confidential service staffed by trained telephone counsellors. http://www.lifeline.org.au

For a few fact sheets and stories about suicide and it's impact, check out these links...