On Saturday in Heavitree, I came across these flowers. Just outside the Co-op was Graham’s spot. He was the Big Issue man and we often said hello.
While I was there, two very elderly ladies came along, both knew him well and said he’d been around Heavitree for at least fifteen years,always had a smile on his face and never a bad word.
I believe that Graham had been homeless for many years, but I don’t know which of the night stops he visited.
He always seemed healthy, so it was a total surprise that he’d passed away. He was probably around my age, there but for fortune . . . .
Just a couple of weeks before he died he was given a flat, too little too late. Graham’s cheerful presence covered a very different reality, he must have had serious mental health problems, because he threw himself in front of a train.
Rest in peace Graham, I wish I’d taken more time to speak to you.
Lucid Gypsy 
Ssooo sad, Gilly. Mental health is very widespread but nothing is ever addressed.
I suppose the stigma still keeps the powers-that-be from doing anything.
Yes …. too late, indeed.
Issy š
Over here the services vary from place to place. There are some good things in place but never enough of them despite a lot of funding.
A sad tale Gilly and sad flowers too. I hate to see all the flowers left when someone dies, I think it is such a waste and the money could have been used to support a charity instead.
I am inclined to agree with Jude, Gilly….what a tragic story
I’ve liked this, Gilly- goodness knows why. Automatic response I suppose, and he was a man that brought smiles. What a terrible way to go, and how sad that help came too late. I had a good blogging friend who seems to have done the same. How can you account for it? Noone should be homeless.
Very sad end… and even more sad to lead a lonely life…
So very sad Gilly … Rest In Peace Graham
Graham obviously made a mark on his community. I wonder what heād think of these tributes? Another post form your generosity of spirit.