THE LOSS of a dear friend to suicide has inspired the publication of a book of photography which aims to provide hope to the many people who have been affected by suicide.
The book, Bright Beginnings, is a collection of photographs taken by the author, Sean Connaughton, reflecting some of the most wonderful and rare aspects of Galway life from well-known scenes, such as the Claddagh and Galway Bay, to simple images of wildlife and the nature that surrounds us.
The aim of the book, he says, is to show through the art of photography that happiness can be found in simple things around us, especially in times of need. He hopes to create awareness of suicide and to provide hope to those touched by suicide through the book.
In the book’s introduction, Mr Connaughton writes: “We can address the issue of suicide through understanding and education. The victims of suicide deserve our efforts to prevent its continuation. Their gentle voices have not been silenced. We will hear them when we are ready to listen. When we look, we need to see. When we hear, we need to listen. Together we can grow with the wisdom that human life is precious therefore it needs to be protected.”
Mr Connaughton runs a company called MrSeanBooks.com which has published Bright Beginnings and has raised €250,000 over the past 18 months from the sale of books, greeting cards and strategies to benefit the work of various charities in Ireland. The Galway-based Community Heart Awards initiative is sponsoring the publication of Bright Beginnings. All proceeds are being donated to Console, which supports those affected by suicide.
Bright Beginnings, €4.99, is available at Eason’s of Galway
