Gazza backs campaign to help people with mental health problems after nephew’s tragic overdose
Jay Kerrigan, 22, overdosed at his girlfriend's home in May last year
PAUL Gascogine has backed a campaign to improve support for people with mental health problems following his nephew's tragic death.
Jay Kerrigan, 22, overdosed at his girlfriend's home in May last year while suffering from mental health problems, the Mirror reported.
Now, his mother Anna has launched the £100,000 Jay Lennon Foundation campaign to fund assessment beds for young people and adults - and his uncle Gazza, 49, has pledged his support, along with former Corrie star Denise Welch.
Gazza, who carried Jay's coffin at his funeral, told the Mirror:“I’m so happy Anna is doing something positive in Jay’s name.
“The whole family was devastated by Jay’s passing and I have been heartbroken at his loss.
“Let’s all get behind this campaign and try and prevent this situation arising and save some kids."
read more
Anna, 50, says Jay took his own life when he did not receive the help he needed from mental health or drugs and alcohol services.
She added he bought drugs online and even sold a rare Giger guitar bought for him by Gazza for just £25.
She told the : “It was impossible to completely fix it. Jay’s mental health problems were complex, just like our Paul’s who struggles every day and they are a part of his life. Jay was the same – every single day was a battle."
The tragic death of Jay, who suffered from depression and OCD like Gazza, sent his uncle on a downward spiral which saw him enter rehab earlier this year.
Jay was found dead in a block of flats in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, after being affected by “intrusive and destructive thoughts”.
Meanwhile, his mum Anna's life remains in limbo - and she believes her son could still be alive today if he been given more support.
She said: “I’ll never get over losing him, and knowing it could have been prevented if he’d got the help he needed."