Break the link between ADHD and suicide
Join us in helping other young people and their families
Break the link between ADHD and suicide
Join us in helping other young people and their families
Henry's Story
A Bright and Kind Soul
Henry Joseph Grierson was a bright, compassionate young man who touched the lives of everyone around him. Born with an inquisitive spirit and a gentle heart, Henry's warmth was felt by all who knew him. He had a unique ability to make others feel seen, understood, and valued, even in their toughest moments.
Passionate About Learning
From a young age, Henry was deeply curious. He loved learning about the world around him, exploring new ideas, and challenging himself to think differently. Whether it was a love for rugby, design, music, his enthusiasm was infectious, inspiring those around him to engage with life to the fullest.
Facing Challenges with Courage
Henry faced the challenges of ADHD, a condition that shaped much of his experience. He approached life with bravery, constantly seeking ways to understand himself and manage the unique hurdles he encountered. He was more than his struggles, however; Henry’s identity was defined by his kindness, intelligence, and unwavering love for his friends and family.
The Light He Shared
Henry had a passion for rugby playing both codes at King Cross Park Rugby League Club and Huddersfield Laund Hill Rugby Union Football Club plus having collected an Under 16 International Cap for Scotland. He also had a wide and eclectic music taste with his favourite being Oasis. His friends remember him for his humour, his creativity, and the times they spent laughing together. Family gatherings were always brighter with Henry’s presence, his laughter filling the room.
A Legacy of Understanding
Henry's journey was one of resilience and hope, and though it was cut tragically short, his story does not end here. His life has sparked a commitment to raising awareness about ADHD and mental health, to support those who face similar challenges, and to make a difference for others. Henry’s legacy is one of compassion, understanding, and a desire to help those who are navigating the same path of neurodiversity
Always Remembered, Forever Loved
The loss of Henry has left an immeasurable gap in the lives of those who loved him. We honour his memory by sharing his story, by cherishing the moments he gave us, and by continuing to speak his name. Henry will always be remembered as the kind-hearted, intelligent young man who brought light into the world, and continues to bring light into our lives even in the darkest times.
Raising £35,000 to Break the Link between ADHD and Suicide
Welcome to Henry Grierson - Forever 17
On 21st April 2024, our youngest son, Henry Joseph Grierson (17) took a tragic decision to end his own life and broke the hearts of his family sending shockwaves through the community.
Henry is our baby with siblings Naomi (23), Thomas (21) and Jacob (19). A squad swimmer from age 7 he followed his brothers into Rugby League and Rugby Union before secondary school. He achieved great GCSEs and was attending college. He had recently been selected to represent Scotland in the u19s European Rugby League Championships with Jacob. He was an Air Cadet following his dream to become an Avionics Technician in the RAF. We couldn’t be prouder.
But Henry was so much more than his achievements. A unique individual, with a truly larger than life personality. Funny, intelligent, articulate, sometimes silly but with a deep intellect and sensitive, emotional maturity that many will never achieve in their lifetimes. Our beautiful boy was kind and thoughtful. A “One-off” totally unique, there will never be another Henry Grierson. His passion, humour, wit and individuality made him such a fascinating person and we couldn’t be prouder as his family.
Henry you will remain forever 17 in our hearts, the brightest firework in the sky. A life of extrovert superlatives. Beautiful, spectacular and while your life may have been short, your cheeky smile and the crazy memories will last. You lit up our lives and spread so much joy.
Following what we hope will be the world’s most amazing funeral, we start the process to turn this tragedy into a positive legacy. Henry exhibited signs of ADHD from a very young age officially diagnosed aged 10. He described himself as “A Ferrari With No Brakes”. He bit his nails, was untidy, had poor money management, was late, continually fidgeted, shouted out in class, forgot his books etc. As he grew older, he was prone to take impulsive actions with more serious consequences with which he was not emotionally equipped to deal. Henry was let down by the education system, the NHS and the Police. Whilst unintentional, the lack of understanding of neurodiversity in these authoritarian establishments meant that Henry did not have the support required and ultimately caused his loss of respect. This led to low self esteem and self-medicating with substances to cope. We will honour Henry’s name creating change for those like Henry who struggle to navigate education and transition from teenager to adulthood.
For people 15-29 yrs, suicide is the 2nd cause of death. ADHD prevalence is estimated at 5-7% in u18s. Studies suggest an association between ADHD and antisocial behaviour, depression and substance abuse. Individuals with ADHD are also at greater risk of suicide. Help us break this cycle and start better education resources about ADHD in schools so that young people are appropriately accommodated.
Ferrari boy our hearts are broken. Rest in Peace Henry and know that our love for you could not be greater and will never diminish. If you know Henry, his family, have been touched by ADHD or just want to make the world a better place please make a donation. Help us educate the world to become a kinder place for everyone. We are all different!
If you know of anyone or think you know anyone or are struggling with your own mental health or substance abuse then please speak to someone or seek professional help. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
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In Memory of Henry Let's Break the Link
Empowering the ADHD Community in Memory of Henry
Research shows that individuals with ADHD, especially young males, are at higher risk for suicidal behaviours. A recent study found that people with ADHD had over 8 times higher risk of suicide attempts and 12 times higher risk of completed suicide compared to those without ADHD.
Several factors associated with ADHD can increase suicide risk:
- Impulsivity,
- Emotional dysregulation
- Academic/social struggles
- Higher rates of depression and anxiety
- Substance abuse
Help us help other young people with ADHD to receive the support they need
Welcome to Henry Grierson - Forever 17
We are in the process of setting up a charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people with ADHD and reducing the likelihood of substance abuse and suicide. Join us in making a difference today!
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