Graham Thorpe’s father, Geoff, finds solace and pride in rewatching old cricket footage of his son, who tragically passed away last year after battling depression.
A Father’s Enduring Pride and Pain
For Geoff Thorpe, the sight of his son Graham’s elegant cover drives and powerful pulls on screen brings a “nice feeling.” He often revisits these moments, cherishing the memory of Graham’s incredible talent.
Despite the immense pride, Geoff also carries the deep sorrow of his son’s struggle with mental health. Graham, a beloved England cricketer, took his own life last year, a stark reminder of the widespread impact of mental health challenges.
“This suicide… this mental health… it’s a big, big problem,” Geoff shared in an emotional interview. He stressed the vital importance of open conversation, adding that mental health issues can “smother you if you don’t talk.”
Geoff occasionally visits Graham’s grave, acknowledging the unique ways people cope with grief. He reflected on how men, in particular, might feel pressured to be “macho” and hide their feelings, even when they are struggling.
Remembering England’s “Mr. Dependable”
During a challenging period for English cricket, Graham Thorpe was a steadfast presence. The left-handed middle-order batsman played 100 Tests and 82 One Day Internationals, earning the reputation of “Mr. Dependable” for his consistent performances.
Geoff recalled a specific video of Graham scoring a century in the Benson & Hedges Cup. He remembered commentator David Lloyd remarking on Graham’s ability to “look at the gaps,” a testament to his cricketing intelligence.
From Garden Games to International Stardom
Graham’s cricketing journey had humble beginnings. Though naturally right-handed for writing and bowling, he discovered he could score more easily left-handed in the family garden. This simple realization set him on a unique path.
The garden itself became a training ground, with a sloping terrain and a rhododendron bush serving as the bowling crease. Games were competitive, with no allowances made for the youngest brother.
Beyond cricket, Graham was a remarkable all-around athlete. He excelled as an international schoolboy footballer and achieved county-level status in long jump. His football career ended after a severe tackle led to him being sent off.
A Legacy of Openness and Support
This Friday, on what would have been Graham’s 56th birthday, his home ground, The Oval, will host “A Day for Thorpey.” This special event aims to commemorate his life and raise funds for Mind, a mental health charity, through initiatives like selling headbands.
Graham’s eldest daughter, Kitty, affectionately remembers her father as her “best friend and soulmate.” She described him as a “joy” who was kind, caring, and fun, teaching her valuable lessons about kindness, respect, humility, and gratitude.
His daughter Emma emphasized the importance of sharing their family’s experience. “My dad was quite a private person, so for us to share his and our experience is important to help other people who have gone through similar things,” she said, highlighting the goal to “start a conversation, to reduce the shame and stigma there are.”
- Graham Thorpe’s father finds comfort in watching old cricket footage of his late son.
- Graham tragically passed away last year after a battle with depression.
- His family is speaking out to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
- “A Day for Thorpey” at The Oval will commemorate his life and raise funds for mental health charity Mind.
Graham’s lasting impact continues to inspire discussions about mental health, encouraging empathy and support for those who struggle.
