Simon, Your videos are so inspiring to me as I deal with my own grief losing my partner of 23 years so suddenly just over 4 weeks ago. We had a wonderful service for her last week in a packed Cromer Church on Valentines Day. It is the quiet in the house that is the hardest and the only person I want to talk to most is the one person I can’t. God bless you and Ethan and thank you for sharing your private grief. It is helping so many who are going through a similar loss.
Grief is something that is never taught, simply because no one is aware of how to deal or confront it. You are a hell of a guy and your son are so very brave. Thoughts with you and your son as well as family and friends!. 👍💙
You are an inspiration clearly to so many people and people who aren’t dealing with grief. I’m so glad you can talk because its really great to hear. You and Ethan are in my prayers every single night. Walkie-talkies are an awesome idea and he’ll just love it when he’s a lot older!
Hi Simon & Ethan, I just read this bible verse and I hope it encourages you both . Psalm 86:17. Give us a sign of your goodness that our enemies may see it & be put to shame, for you oh lord have helped us and comforted us . ( I am pretty sure you have many friends , & hopefully zero enemies. Also remember that “one with God is majority .I have never stopped praying for you, & I hope that nothing will ever discourage me from writing to you God bless xxx
Our church family have had you in their prayers. You are doing so well. My husband lost his father suddenly as a teen. God really helped Him through it, and He will help you x
Simon, my heart goes out to you and for the strength your showing in these Vicious times. I don't know you, but you sound like an amazing dad that will become even more amazing. It's an old adage but you'll get there. Time is a healer. Take your time.
Casting all your cares, all your anxieties, all your worries & all your concerns once & 4 all on him, for he cares about you with deepest affection & watches over you very carefully. 1 Peter 5:7 Amplified God Bless 😀
Thank you for sharing your story with us. You have amazing strength and courage. I lost my mum unexpectedly 2 and a half years ago. I’ve never known grief like it. There’s no darker place to be, but there’s hope that one with each day that passes it gets a little bit easier. Stay strong. I’m prayingfor you and Ethan
I’m so so sorry Simon. I lost my brother suddenly over a year ago. He was only 34. sudden death, myocarditis. Many people didn’t know what to say after it happened and people would run in the opposite direction or put their head down or say you’ll get over it in time. We need to speak about grief. I always felt compelled to speak my truth and say no I’m not ok and today is hard and a lot of those people would avoid me afterwards. Thank you for speaking your truth xxxx
Keep going Simon. I read your blog the other week and can identify with almost everything, I lost my son at birth so can understand the grief you must feel, though not entirely. You're such a brave and courageous man for opening up! Thank you for doing so! It's given me the incentive to look at opening up more! Take care my friend.
keep doing what your doing,no book can tell you how to deal with your loss simon,we do take things for granted only because we share everything together,and now its been torn apart,best wishes to you and son.
You've shown such incredible strength sharing your story, especially in sharing that you don't always feel strong. I pray that you and your son can find comfort and peace in one another, and in time make some more happy memories.
Stay strong SimonYou will miss her forever, I hope & pray that the pain gets less , I pray that God brings kind people your way Take care both of you God bless xxx
Hi SimonHow are you?When you feel discouraged & restless, when you feel you’ve lost the best part of you, when you give comfort, when you need comfort, when you are worn out & weary & unable to build the wall, when none of this makes any sense to you. Then the still small voice whispers softly from Isaiah 65:21-25. (NIV) They will build houses & dwell in them, they will plant vineyards & eat their fruits, no longer will they build houses & others live in them, or plant & others eat, For as the days of a TREE, so will be the days of my people, my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands, they will not labour in vain, nor will they bear children doomed for misfortune, for they will be a people blessed by the lord, they & their descendants with them,. Before they call I will answer, while they are still speaking , I will hear,. I am praying for you both, and I hope you continue to stay STRONG through this difficult time of grief & unbearable pain ( you already are). Take care God bless
hi bud im a hgv driver :( heard you on 5 live the other day omg your a true gent it made me look hard at my life and my time with my wife and kids thank you so so much love and respect to you and your family
I still remember the days of getting home and switching on Blue Peter and being happy to see you presenting! It breaks my heart to know you and you’re son are going through something as difficult as this. A few years back I found out my mum was terminal with breast cancer and she unfortunately passed away 90 minutes later; I can understand how much this has hurt you both. But you should be incredibly proud of yourself to handle this by openly expressing the raw emotions and feelings that you’re experiencing. We are all with you Simon!
Dear Simon & Ethan ,Stay strong , God will protect you both, bless you both & keep you under the shadow of his wings, may the grace & love of our lord Jesus Christ be with you now & always . Take care God bless xxx
We all take everything for granted don't we? My husband died four months ago from cancer. We lived in a bubble during the fifteen months of his illness as he was in pretty good shape for a lot of that time so even though we knew he was so ill, we didn't deal with that head-on. He was determined that the drugs were going to improve to buy him more time. He deteriorated really quickly in the end and I suppose I'm grateful that he didn't suffer for too long. It was hard enough as it was. But it was so so sad. I'm still so sad. I miss him so much. We had started to try for a baby when he was diagnosed so I'm on my own and it's hard. Thank you for talking about your grief Simon. We need to talk about death more.
I think you are completely amazing! Both of you, you have been through so much grief and heartache I can’t even imagine. Please know that you are thought of by so many and admired by thousands. You will come through this and the memories will always be amazing but you will create more fantastic ones in the future. Much love xx
I’ve been following your story very closely recently as I’ve had a similar situation happen to me and couldn’t comprehend how much it would make me question and think about things, for some reason I couldn’t process of someone close to me dying. Like the fact I couldn’t just text them or speak to them. You’ve been very strong for everyone (including yourself) but especially Ethan, Just don’t be too hard on yourself
I don't know if you'll ever read this Simon but I just want to say a huge thank you. This Wednesday just passed, my big brother took his own life. It's been one big horrifying nightmare, but I've felt some encouragement and catharsis in your videos. But, particularly your article you put out a while back. My brother and I were raised in a devout Christian household, as we grew into adulthood we both strayed from our faith, certainly him more than I, but the empathy I feel for you in having anger towards God in trying to understand why these horrible things have happened and dealing with the loss of someone you love so much is really a big comfort. I hate the cliche but it is true that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. And more importantly neither is Ethan. And during this week I've found solace in the knowledge that God is in control. Both my brother and I have suffered with Anxiety and depression our whole lives, and he put his hope and faith into fleeting things that may have seemed so important to him but in reality the only way is Jesus. Unfortunately he fell into a place where he saw no light at the end of the tunnel, and I can only pray that before the end he looked back to Jesus. All things in life must pass, but he doesn't. I'll be praying for you and your family mate, just remember who your rock is, and you'll be made stronger through him :)
Mattie this is both a heartbreaking and amazing message. It's heartbreaking to hear whats happened to you brother. I am so sorry. I can't begin to imagine how you deal with your brother taking his own life but its a reminder of how cruel and destructive mental illness can be. I hope, like you, that he found grace and mercy at the end. The amazing thing I find about your message is that amidst the huge pain you are in right now you have reached out to me and are praying for me. It says everything about you as a person and the man God is shaping you into. Like me, I know you'll cling onto that rock and the light in the darkness will shine brighter with each day. God Bless mate and keep in touch.
Dear Mattie I am so sorry to read about the loss of your brother. The loss of a loved one leaves us lost, let alone suicide. I pray that God will comfort you & your family . Not sure if you are a Christian or not, but either way I would like to write you these words from the Bible, I hope you find some sort of comfort & strength in them . Mathew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn , for they will be comforted, Lamentations 3:31-33 For the lord will not cast off forever , but though he cause grief , yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies, for he does not afflict willingly nor grief the children of men, John 11:33-35. God weeps with us in our pain, like he wept with Mary & Martha over the death of their brother. I am praying for you, take heart & be strong. God bless xxx
Loneliness is a real part of grief, after my mum died my dad couldn’t stand the silence in the house. I’m living alone for the first time in my life at 35 and I find being alone really hard. You are an amazing man and a great dad just keep going hour by hour, day by day.
this is such a good thing for others going through a similar situation as yourself x when we lost our son and granddaughter, to speak to others going through the same, was what helped us..people wouldnt normally feel that they could ask you how you were feeling for fear of upsetting you but to be as honest as you are in this...feeling as you must do, although really hard must be helping so many others xx stay strong xxx
IS 51:3 NLT The lord will comfort Israel again, & have pity on her ruins . Her deserts will blossom like Eden , he barren wilderness like the garden of the lord, joy & gladness will be found there, Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air . IS 66:13 NIV As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you, & you will be comforted over Jerusalem . All I can say Simon is Ethan is a very lucky boy to have amazing parents , he’s got the best of both, I pray you live long which is according to God’s promise, in psalms “with long life will I satisfy you & show you my salvation . The touchy story of the stranger who paid for your drinks, & cake “(you & Ethan) see how God pours out his love to you both through strangers wao!!! God bless xxx
You are doing amazingly Simon. I’m not very good when it comes to words of comfort, I always seem to say the wrong thing but just know that myself and so many people are thinking of you and Ethan. xx
alex durnell huh. Say no more. I’m a 50 year old lady and I do remember watching Simon during his Blue Peter times. He was amazing! I was sad when he left then I started watching him on sky all because, he’s a brilliant presenter. Korney Huq as well( hope I’ve got the spelling of the name right)
What a guy. I think most people who maybe in the same place as you might relate to this. But i have to say your spot on mate. But u seem like a nice man..
Gotta say I was getting used to you wearing those Top Gun Glasses in your previous video!!! You and Your Boy will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers X
Wow, it was so emotional watching you speaking, but so raw and so real, and thank you very much for sharing this incredibly difficult night with us. Your honesty and openness will help so many people, and thank you for reminding me to cherish what I have as much as possible. You are right when you say that many people Ethan doesn't even know are proud of him. You both have a lot of very caring people walking beside you. Thank you and may this day be brighter for you both xxx
Hi Simon, i’m just a stranger with a quite similar background story. I wish i could talk to you and share our thoughts. I am Christian and i’m still screaming from time to time why god did this to my baby boy. But I know, at the end of the day we all need to stay strong, face reality and move on mostly for our loved ones who left. What’s worse than death is having an empty life. All the best to you and your boy
Unfortunately life is short but we do not understand this until it's too late all my best wishes and hopes for u. Be strong and don't forget to tell your son all of the happy things his mum said and did.
Simon don’t worry son when my dad passed away I thought time stood still wanted to say so much things to him I thought I would never come out of it it’s Been so long since he died you will over come the grief
Dear Team Thomas, so this a first for me, commenting on a post but I'm afraid I felt compelled to do so. I have watched from afar your grief following the passing of your wife Gemma 13 weeks ago and I admire your honesty and wish with all my heart that I had done something like this when my husband passed in August 2014. I lost my husband to suicide, he had been suffering with a condition call sarcoidosis of the lungs for many years but what neither of us knew was that this disease could spread to his brain and cause a transient psychotic attack and my life and that of my children's life changed forever on that fatal day forever. I left the house with him appearing to be fine and 20 minutes later he had suffered this psychotic attack and sent us all a text to say goodbye. I am nearly four years into this journey and you will go through many many firsts, I still struggle coming home to an empty house four years on. My children are adults now and yet to be bereaved at 49 seems so unfair. I have lost count the times I have been told 'it is time to move on', if I had a pound for every time I have heard this I would have been able to give CALM lots of donations! The hardest part for me is still not being able to take the pain away that my children go through. It hurts so much to see them suffer but we have become a formidable team and I have no doubt that you and Ethan will be the same. I have no real advice Simon to help you other than to say, embrace the help of your family and friends, learn to take baby steps and do things at your own pace; the grief never ever leaves you, you just learn to wear a mask to cover your pain and you will learn to laugh and love life again. I adore my life but my heart aches for Andrew it really does but I know that he would never have left us of his own accord, it was the disease that took him. I have found peace and companionship with another widow and dare I say it but have fallen in love again; we both recognise that our first books were indeed best sellers but we are learning to write new chapters for this new forced life and in turn our new book that will hopefully bring us continued peace and happiness which is something I thought I would never have in my life again. Your words are inspirational and I have no doubt, that without even realising it, that you are helping many, many widows with their grief. Sending my heartfelt best wishes to you and Ethan and continued strength.
Hi Simon Thank you so much for being a vessel and an inspiration to many many people who have watched you and continue to watch your videos. Both you and your boy are growing stronger ,. I am still praying for you for strength and comfort , I hope you find these bible verses uplifting as you spend time together. Exodus 33:4 And he said, my presence shall go with you and I will give you rest. Jn 14:16 I will ask the father and he will give you another helper (the Holy Spirit) that he may be with you forever .jer31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love and I have drawn you with my loving kindness . I pray for Gods love, his presence and rest . Take care . God bless
One step at a time Simon and surely you will get there. GOD WILL MAKE A WAY WHERE THERE SEEM TO BE NO WAY. I have just learnt something from what you just said. Take care Simon. God will continue to strengthen you and the family around you. Amen.
Promise to alway cherish her memory, keep her in a safe place in your heart, & do the things that she liked.Also promise, when getting stronger & ready, promise to find a friend, fall in love again, give Ethan a few siblings, turn the house into a home, fill it with laughter, watch your children grow and your grandchildren. It's not gonna be easy - life isn't always easy - but will be worth it. The longer you stay in silence and on your own the harder it gets, silence & loneliness will take over. Take it from me
Stay strong! Love and hold Ethan and Tilly! I know exactly what you're going through - but you have put it into words. It's a long journey - I am at 5 months... it's something that changes and morphs and morphs back again... catches you by surprise, knocks you sideways... just hold onto that love that you had - it is still there, you just have to find another way to express it. You still have that, it will never go away. She is with you in a different way. It hurts because you can't get at it, hold it, but it's there. Thanks for sharing your videos - they are helping me and many others!
Hey Simon I hope these words get to you Just in time , I have more confidence in Gods angels than Royal Mail ,. How are you and how is your little boy. Well done for being so brave & courageous lately on your FIRST BIG and also on posting a video about it .I pray that God grants you the following ;1. The patience of Job2. the perseverance of Nehemiah 3. The wisdom of Solomon Hope this Bible verse comforts you as you continue to walk through this dark tunnel of grief:, despair and total darkness . I hope that you will find light in Gods words, in the eyes of your little boy and through the kinds and loving words of family, friends , well wishers , fans etc. psalm 56;8 NLT“You keep track of all my sorrows, you have collected all my tears in YOUR BOTTLE, you have collected EACH ONE in your book ,. Try and get some sleep now!!!Take care God Bless
Simon, usually I find it a bit patronising when people say someone is "brave" but you absolutely are, and I hope once you get through tonight you will feel you have jumped a small but significant hurdle. Thankyou for sharing this with us. I have no doubt it will be helping others and hopefully yourself in some small way. Take care xxx
Words cannot express how I feel for you and Ethan right now I remember the first full night without Jacob sleeping in bed across the landing from me as if it were yesterday I'm a only child now so I'm experiencing Ethan's sadness as a 29 year old girl who just wants her brother back my heart is broken for both of you I'm still awake on one of my many sleepless nights recently sitting in the darkness of my room wishing for morning to come in some ways it's therapeutic to be awake while my parents are sound asleep unaware of my inability to drop off at all. Thinking of you both always love from Louise Schilt.
I just wanted to say your beautiful wife would be so proud of you and the strenght you are showing for your son even though you are crumbling inside......just focus on Ethan knowing that your wife will live on through him ....keep talking and sharing your feelings ,no matter what .,it will help you ....you will never get over losing her ,its about learning how to live on with that loss....thinking of you and your beautiful son
When my friend's husband died suddenly she discovered that there was a (relatively) local group of bereaved children who met together regularly to talk and share their unique perspectives with each other. Her son, who is also an only child, found this tremendously helpful. If such a thing doesn't exist near you maybe with your public profile you might think of starting one? Your little boy might find some comfort from it.
FOR THE SHITY HAND YOU'VE BEEN DELT (AT PRESENT) TO SHARE THIS PERSONAL INSIGHT INTO YOUR GRIEF TO HELP OTHERS JUST SHOWS THE CALIBRE OF YOU M8 ! ALL THE BEST ! : )
Dear Simon I am praying for you & Ethan, trusting in God that he will keep you both strong as you swim through.these bitter waters . I wish I could help, All I can do is pray for you, reach out for my bible & pick bible verses, I have no experience with words , but I pray that as messy as my messages are that God will use them to reach your heart & somehow provide some additional comfort even if it’s just 3% daily . Romans 15:13 May God, the source of all hope fill you with all joy & peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit . Psalm 34:18 the lord is near to those who are discouraged , he saves those who have lost all hope , IS he is despised & rejected by men, a man of sorrows & acquainted with grief . 2 cor 13:4 blessed be the God & father of our lord Jesus Christ, the father of all mercies & God of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble . IS 49:15 can a mother forget the baby at her breasts & have no compassion on the child she has borne ? Though she may forget. I will not forget you. Take heart, continue with all you are doing, you are a very strong manGod bless xxx
Simon, Your videos are so inspiring to me as I deal with my own grief losing my partner of 23 years so suddenly just over 4 weeks ago. We had a wonderful service for her last week in a packed Cromer Church on Valentines Day. It is the quiet in the house that is the hardest and the only person I want to talk to most is the one person I can’t. God bless you and Ethan and thank you for sharing your private grief. It is helping so many who are going through a similar loss.
Top man! You're an inspiration to your son. Much love to you both & all those out there going through the same thing :-)
Its wonderful he's sharing this, we love sharing our great days bt this helps soooo many people, sorry simon 😇✌💝💓💖❤
It's remarkable to see you overall demeanor lifting with each passing week... Sending you and Ethan continued best wishes.
You are phenomenal Simon.
What a wonderfully honest and brave man. I'm in awe of how you deal with things I simply believe I couldn't.
You are an inspiration Simon! I have been praying for you and Ethan everyday. Bless you guys!
Be strong & of a good courage God bless xxx
Lovely message Simon. You are doing great and it's very honest and raw but it's what people need. Well done
You're an incredible man Simon and I wish nothing but the best for the future of yourself and your son Ethan. God bless you both mate
Stay strong Simon! We're all supporting you & you're so incredibly brave!
Simon my brother, stay strong, we are all here to support you bro! Love and Peace to you and your son!
Thanks for reminding us all not to take our loved ones and family for granted. A truly horrendous experience for you and your son.
You & your son are in the thought & prayers of thousands of people.You are an inspiration to so many Simon.
"You never know what you've got till its gone ."❤.......
This is great that you are being open and sharing.
I shall be following your progress and processes.
This is healing for you right there xxxxxx❤❤❤
#TeamThomas! Keep strong Simon & Ethan. You have both stayed so strong. Praying for you everyday.
God bless you & your son stay strong thoughts & prayers are with you.
Grief is something that is never taught, simply because no one is aware of how to deal or confront it. You are a hell of a guy and your son are so very brave. Thoughts with you and your son as well as family and friends!. 👍💙
An inspiration you are Sir, wishing you all the best. You’re doing superb!
You are an inspiration clearly to so many people and people who aren’t dealing with grief. I’m so glad you can talk because its really great to hear. You and Ethan are in my prayers every single night. Walkie-talkies are an awesome idea and he’ll just love it when he’s a lot older!
Hi Simon & Ethan, I just read this bible verse and I hope it encourages you both . Psalm 86:17. Give us a sign of your goodness that our enemies may see it & be put to shame, for you oh lord have helped us and comforted us . ( I am pretty sure you have many friends , & hopefully zero enemies. Also remember that “one with God is majority .I have never stopped praying for you, & I hope that nothing will ever discourage me from writing to you God bless xxx
You are hugely inspiring Simon, and an amazing dad. I hope each night gets a little easier. All the best.
Our church family have had you in their prayers. You are doing so well. My husband lost his father suddenly as a teen. God really helped Him through it, and He will help you x
Simon, my heart goes out to you and for the strength your showing in these Vicious times. I don't know you, but you sound like an amazing dad that will become even more amazing. It's an old adage but you'll get there. Time is a healer. Take your time.
Casting all your cares, all your anxieties, all your worries & all your concerns once & 4 all on him, for he cares about you with deepest affection & watches over you very carefully. 1 Peter 5:7 Amplified
God Bless
😀
Absolutely incredible. You're such a brave man, we're all with you
Grief has nearly killed me losing my son broke my heart I feel for u stay strong 😇🙏🏼
Thank you for sharing your story with us. You have amazing strength and courage. I lost my mum unexpectedly 2 and a half years ago. I’ve never known grief like it. There’s no darker place to be, but there’s hope that one with each day that passes it gets a little bit easier. Stay strong. I’m prayingfor you and Ethan
I’m so so sorry Simon. I lost my brother suddenly over a year ago. He was only 34. sudden death, myocarditis. Many people didn’t know what to say after it happened and people would run in the opposite direction or put their head down or say you’ll get over it in time. We need to speak about grief. I always felt compelled to speak my truth and say no I’m not ok and today is hard and a lot of those people would avoid me afterwards. Thank you for speaking your truth xxxx
Dear Simon and Ethan from all my heart I wish you, boys, all the strength of this world. May God look after Gemma.
You are brilliant Simon.
Stay strong. Your doing a absolute fab job. Your wife will be proud of you both. Xxx
Sending lots of big hugs you're way, you're so brave.
Keep going Simon. I read your blog the other week and can identify with almost everything, I lost my son at birth so can understand the grief you must feel, though not entirely. You're such a brave and courageous man for opening up! Thank you for doing so! It's given me the incentive to look at opening up more! Take care my friend.
Sending all my love xx
keep doing what your doing,no book can tell you how to deal with your loss simon,we do take things for granted only because we share everything together,and now its been torn apart,best wishes to you and son.
You've shown such incredible strength sharing your story, especially in sharing that you don't always feel strong.
I pray that you and your son can find comfort and peace in one another, and in time make some more happy memories.
Stay strong SimonYou will miss her forever, I hope & pray that the pain gets less , I pray that God brings kind people your way Take care both of you God bless xxx
Keep strong 🙏🏻
👏 praying for you
Take care Simon I cannot imagine what you are going through. Stay strong.
Hi SimonHow are you?When you feel discouraged & restless, when you feel you’ve lost the best part of you, when you give comfort, when you need comfort, when you are worn out & weary & unable to build the wall, when none of this makes any sense to you. Then the still small voice whispers softly from Isaiah 65:21-25. (NIV) They will build houses & dwell in them, they will plant vineyards & eat their fruits, no longer will they build houses & others live in them, or plant & others eat, For as the days of a TREE, so will be the days of my people, my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands, they will not labour in vain, nor will they bear children doomed for misfortune, for they will be a people blessed by the lord, they & their descendants with them,. Before they call I will answer, while they are still speaking , I will hear,. I am praying for you both, and I hope you continue to stay STRONG through this difficult time of grief & unbearable pain ( you already are). Take care God bless
hi bud
im a hgv driver :(
heard you on 5 live the other day
omg your a true gent
it made me look hard at my life
and my time with my wife and kids
thank you so so much
love and respect to you and your family
I still remember the days of getting home and switching on Blue Peter and being happy to see you presenting! It breaks my heart to know you and you’re son are going through something as difficult as this.
A few years back I found out my mum was terminal with breast cancer and she unfortunately passed away 90 minutes later; I can understand how much this has hurt you both.
But you should be incredibly proud of yourself to handle this by openly expressing the raw emotions and feelings that you’re experiencing. We are all with you Simon!
Dear Simon & Ethan ,Stay strong , God will protect you both, bless you both & keep you under the shadow of his wings, may the grace & love of our lord Jesus Christ be with you now & always . Take care God bless xxx
We all take everything for granted don't we? My husband died four months ago from cancer. We lived in a bubble during the fifteen months of his illness as he was in pretty good shape for a lot of that time so even though we knew he was so ill, we didn't deal with that head-on. He was determined that the drugs were going to improve to buy him more time. He deteriorated really quickly in the end and I suppose I'm grateful that he didn't suffer for too long. It was hard enough as it was. But it was so so sad. I'm still so sad. I miss him so much. We had started to try for a baby when he was diagnosed so I'm on my own and it's hard.
Thank you for talking about your grief Simon. We need to talk about death more.
God bless you both my friend at this very difficult time for you Xx
I think you are completely amazing! Both of you, you have been through so much grief and heartache I can’t even imagine. Please know that you are thought of by so many and admired by thousands. You will come through this and the memories will always be amazing but you will create more fantastic ones in the future. Much love xx
I’ve been following your story very closely recently as I’ve had a similar situation happen to me and couldn’t comprehend how much it would make me question and think about things, for some reason I couldn’t process of someone close to me dying. Like the fact I couldn’t just text them or speak to them. You’ve been very strong for everyone (including yourself) but especially Ethan, Just don’t be too hard on yourself
I don't know if you'll ever read this Simon but I just want to say a huge thank you. This Wednesday just passed, my big brother took his own life. It's been one big horrifying nightmare, but I've felt some encouragement and catharsis in your videos. But, particularly your article you put out a while back. My brother and I were raised in a devout Christian household, as we grew into adulthood we both strayed from our faith, certainly him more than I, but the empathy I feel for you in having anger towards God in trying to understand why these horrible things have happened and dealing with the loss of someone you love so much is really a big comfort. I hate the cliche but it is true that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. And more importantly neither is Ethan. And during this week I've found solace in the knowledge that God is in control. Both my brother and I have suffered with Anxiety and depression our whole lives, and he put his hope and faith into fleeting things that may have seemed so important to him but in reality the only way is Jesus. Unfortunately he fell into a place where he saw no light at the end of the tunnel, and I can only pray that before the end he looked back to Jesus. All things in life must pass, but he doesn't. I'll be praying for you and your family mate, just remember who your rock is, and you'll be made stronger through him :)
Mattie I’m so so sorry for your loss. Thoughts are with you x
Stay strong. I hope things get better for you xxx
Mattie this is both a heartbreaking and amazing message. It's heartbreaking to hear whats happened to you brother. I am so sorry. I can't begin to imagine how you deal with your brother taking his own life but its a reminder of how cruel and destructive mental illness can be. I hope, like you, that he found grace and mercy at the end. The amazing thing I find about your message is that amidst the huge pain you are in right now you have reached out to me and are praying for me. It says everything about you as a person and the man God is shaping you into. Like me, I know you'll cling onto that rock and the light in the darkness will shine brighter with each day. God Bless mate and keep in touch.
Sending you strength and prayers and thank you too for sharing what must be a terrible time for you and your family. Take care x
Dear Mattie
I am so sorry to read about the loss of your brother. The loss of a loved one leaves us lost, let alone suicide. I pray that God will comfort you & your family . Not sure if you are a Christian or not, but either way I would like to write you these words from the Bible, I hope you find some sort of comfort & strength in them . Mathew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn , for they will be comforted, Lamentations 3:31-33 For the lord will not cast off forever , but though he cause grief , yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies, for he does not afflict willingly nor grief the children of men, John 11:33-35. God weeps with us in our pain, like he wept with Mary & Martha over the death of their brother. I am praying for you, take heart & be strong.
God bless xxx
Loneliness is a real part of grief, after my mum died my dad couldn’t stand the silence in the house. I’m living alone for the first time in my life at 35 and I find being alone really hard. You are an amazing man and a great dad just keep going hour by hour, day by day.
this is such a good thing for others going through a similar situation as yourself x when we lost our son and granddaughter, to speak to others going through the same, was what helped us..people wouldnt normally feel that they could ask you how you were feeling for fear of upsetting you but to be as honest as you are in this...feeling as you must do, although really hard must be helping so many others xx stay strong xxx
IS 51:3 NLT The lord will comfort Israel again, & have pity on her ruins . Her deserts will blossom like Eden , he barren wilderness like the garden of the lord, joy & gladness will be found there, Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air . IS 66:13 NIV As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you, & you will be comforted over Jerusalem . All I can say Simon is Ethan is a very lucky boy to have amazing parents , he’s got the best of both, I pray you live long which is according to God’s promise, in psalms “with long life will I satisfy you & show you my salvation . The touchy story of the stranger who paid for your drinks, & cake “(you & Ethan) see how God pours out his love to you both through strangers wao!!! God bless xxx
You are doing amazingly Simon. I’m not very good when it comes to words of comfort, I always seem to say the wrong thing but just know that myself and so many people are thinking of you and Ethan. xx
Thinking of you both! you were my favourite blue peter presenter when i was a kid, take care mate!
alex durnell huh. Say no more. I’m a 50 year old lady and I do remember watching Simon during his Blue Peter times. He was amazing! I was sad when he left then I started watching him on sky all because, he’s a brilliant presenter. Korney Huq as well( hope I’ve got the spelling of the name right)
What a guy. I think most people who maybe in the same place as you might relate to this. But i have to say your spot on mate. But u seem like a nice man..
As someone who lost her father 2 days before her 8th birthday, I know how it feels It’s been 21 years now, and I still remember
Gotta say I was getting used to you wearing those Top Gun Glasses in your previous video!!! You and Your Boy will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers X
Wow Simon xx lots of love xx crying right now xx
Praying for you and your boy. Stay strong 🙏
You’re a good lad! Keep on keeping on dude!
Wow, it was so emotional watching you speaking, but so raw and so real, and thank you very much for sharing this incredibly difficult night with us. Your honesty and openness will help so many people, and thank you for reminding me to cherish what I have as much as possible. You are right when you say that many people Ethan doesn't even know are proud of him. You both have a lot of very caring people walking beside you. Thank you and may this day be brighter for you both xxx
Hi Simon, i’m just a stranger with a quite similar background story. I wish i could talk to you and share our thoughts. I am Christian and i’m still screaming from time to time why god did this to my baby boy. But I know, at the end of the day we all need to stay strong, face reality and move on mostly for our loved ones who left. What’s worse than death is having an empty life. All the best to you and your boy
Take care Simon. I wish you well
Looking a lot more positive. Keep moving forward👍
Thinking of you and Ethan every day. I am also grieving & I know how hard it is. Nearly a year now & im finding it harder than ever.xx
Unfortunately life is short but we do not understand this until it's too late all my best wishes and hopes for u. Be strong and don't forget to tell your son all of the happy things his mum said and did.
Simon don’t worry son when my dad passed away I thought time stood still wanted to say so much things to him I thought I would never come out of it it’s Been so long since he died you will over come the grief
Dear Team Thomas, so this a first for me, commenting on a post but I'm afraid I felt compelled to do so. I have watched from afar your grief following the passing of your wife Gemma 13 weeks ago and I admire your honesty and wish with all my heart that I had done something like this when my husband passed in August 2014. I lost my husband to suicide, he had been suffering with a condition call sarcoidosis of the lungs for many years but what neither of us knew was that this disease could spread to his brain and cause a transient psychotic attack and my life and that of my children's life changed forever on that fatal day forever. I left the house with him appearing to be fine and 20 minutes later he had suffered this psychotic attack and sent us all a text to say goodbye. I am nearly four years into this journey and you will go through many many firsts, I still struggle coming home to an empty house four years on. My children are adults now and yet to be bereaved at 49 seems so unfair. I have lost count the times I have been told 'it is time to move on', if I had a pound for every time I have heard this I would have been able to give CALM lots of donations! The hardest part for me is still not being able to take the pain away that my children go through. It hurts so much to see them suffer but we have become a formidable team and I have no doubt that you and Ethan will be the same. I have no real advice Simon to help you other than to say, embrace the help of your family and friends, learn to take baby steps and do things at your own pace; the grief never ever leaves you, you just learn to wear a mask to cover your pain and you will learn to laugh and love life again. I adore my life but my heart aches for Andrew it really does but I know that he would never have left us of his own accord, it was the disease that took him. I have found peace and companionship with another widow and dare I say it but have fallen in love again; we both recognise that our first books were indeed best sellers but we are learning to write new chapters for this new forced life and in turn our new book that will hopefully bring us continued peace and happiness which is something I thought I would never have in my life again. Your words are inspirational and I have no doubt, that without even realising it, that you are helping many, many widows with their grief. Sending my heartfelt best wishes to you and Ethan and continued strength.
your such amazing person your son be so proud
Simon keep talking. It’s your therapy. So glad you’ve got the support you need x
Right behind you here at UCB radio
Hi Simon Thank you so much for being a vessel and an inspiration to many many people who have watched you and continue to watch your videos. Both you and your boy are growing stronger ,. I am still praying for you for strength and comfort , I hope you find these bible verses uplifting as you spend time together. Exodus 33:4 And he said, my presence shall go with you and I will give you rest. Jn 14:16 I will ask the father and he will give you another helper (the Holy Spirit) that he may be with you forever .jer31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love and I have drawn you with my loving kindness . I pray for Gods love, his presence and rest . Take care . God bless
One step at a time Simon and surely you will get there. GOD WILL MAKE A WAY WHERE THERE SEEM TO BE NO WAY. I have just learnt something from what you just said. Take care Simon. God will continue to strengthen you and the family around you. Amen.
Promise to alway cherish her memory, keep her in a safe place in your heart, & do the things that she liked.Also promise, when getting stronger & ready, promise to find a friend, fall in love again, give Ethan a few siblings, turn the house into a home, fill it with laughter, watch your children grow and your grandchildren. It's not gonna be easy - life isn't always easy - but will be worth it. The longer you stay in silence and on your own the harder it gets, silence & loneliness will take over. Take it from me
Stay strong! Love and hold Ethan and Tilly! I know exactly what you're going through - but you have put it into words. It's a long journey - I am at 5 months... it's something that changes and morphs and morphs back again... catches you by surprise, knocks you sideways... just hold onto that love that you had - it is still there, you just have to find another way to express it. You still have that, it will never go away. She is with you in a different way. It hurts because you can't get at it, hold it, but it's there. Thanks for sharing your videos - they are helping me and many others!
Stay strong mate!!!
Stay Strong x
Stay strong mate.
Hey Simon I hope these words get to you Just in time , I have more confidence in Gods angels than Royal Mail ,. How are you and how is your little boy. Well done for being so brave & courageous lately on your FIRST BIG and also on posting a video about it .I pray that God grants you the following ;1. The patience of Job2. the perseverance of Nehemiah 3. The wisdom of Solomon Hope this Bible verse comforts you as you continue to walk through this dark tunnel of grief:, despair and total darkness . I hope that you will find light in Gods words, in the eyes of your little boy and through the kinds and loving words of family, friends , well wishers , fans etc. psalm 56;8 NLT“You keep track of all my sorrows, you have collected all my tears in YOUR BOTTLE, you have collected EACH ONE in your book ,. Try and get some sleep now!!!Take care God Bless
You’re amazing.
Stay stong Simon, Peace
Simon, usually I find it a bit patronising when people say someone is "brave" but you absolutely are, and I hope once you get through tonight you will feel you have jumped a small but significant hurdle. Thankyou for sharing this with us. I have no doubt it will be helping others and hopefully yourself in some small way. Take care xxx
She's with you. You can't see her but she's there. One day she'll be in your arms again.
Words cannot express how I feel for you and Ethan right now I remember the first full night without Jacob sleeping in bed across the landing from me as if it were yesterday I'm a only child now so I'm experiencing Ethan's sadness as a 29 year old girl who just wants her brother back my heart is broken for both of you I'm still awake on one of my many sleepless nights recently sitting in the darkness of my room wishing for morning to come in some ways it's therapeutic to be awake while my parents are sound asleep unaware of my inability to drop off at all. Thinking of you both always love from Louise Schilt.
I just wanted to say your beautiful wife would be so proud of you and the strenght you are showing for your son even though you are crumbling inside......just focus on Ethan knowing that your wife will live on through him ....keep talking and sharing your feelings ,no matter what .,it will help you ....you will never get over losing her ,its about learning how to live on with that loss....thinking of you and your beautiful son
im using my sons account ....jacks mam
When my friend's husband died suddenly she discovered that there was a (relatively) local group of bereaved children who met together regularly to talk and share their unique perspectives with each other. Her son, who is also an only child, found this tremendously helpful. If such a thing doesn't exist near you maybe with your public profile you might think of starting one? Your little boy might find some comfort from it.
TIME will help with the grief ! not Completely but it will get easier!
Just want you to know that you and Ethan are in my prayers.
FOR THE SHITY HAND YOU'VE BEEN DELT (AT PRESENT) TO SHARE THIS PERSONAL INSIGHT INTO YOUR GRIEF TO HELP OTHERS JUST SHOWS THE CALIBRE OF YOU M8 ! ALL THE BEST ! : )
Dear Simon I am praying for you & Ethan, trusting in God that he will keep you both strong as you swim through.these bitter waters . I wish I could help, All I can do is pray for you, reach out for my bible & pick bible verses, I have no experience with words , but I pray that as messy as my messages are that God will use them to reach your heart & somehow provide some additional comfort even if it’s just 3% daily . Romans 15:13 May God, the source of all hope fill you with all joy & peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit . Psalm 34:18 the lord is near to those who are discouraged , he saves those who have lost all hope , IS he is despised & rejected by men, a man of sorrows & acquainted with grief . 2 cor 13:4 blessed be the God & father of our lord Jesus Christ, the father of all mercies & God of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble . IS 49:15 can a mother forget the baby at her breasts & have no compassion on the child she has borne ? Though she may forget. I will not forget you. Take heart, continue with all you are doing, you are a very strong manGod bless xxx
Im sorry.... Jesus is the answer.😇