The Parramatta Eels have predominantly taken the colour blue out of our jersey for the Round 20 clash against the Wests Tigers on Sunday 23 July at ANZ Stadium. It is a sign of our support for the Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation’s “Stay Kind” initiative for “Stay Kind Day”, launching on Sunday 23 July.
The “Stay Kind” program has been launched in loving memory of Stuart Kelly, son to Ralph Kelly and Kathy Kelly, in honour of his continued support and kindness to others. Stuart was a great supporter of his beloved Parramatta Eels while his Dad, Ralph, supports the Wests Tigers.
Ralph Kelly spoke at last Monday’s (10 July) launch about how the conversation started with the NRL in November last year. Both the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers were approached to support the “Stay Kind” initiative and both clubs are privileged to play for the “Stay Kind” Cup on Sunday 23 July.
Parramatta Eels CEO Bernie Gurr stated: “When the foundation approached us about changing the mix of colours in our jersey for this game, we were more than willing to support the symbolism of “taking the blues out of the blue” for the Thomas Kelly Youth Foundation’s initiative to “Stay Kind” to one another; hence our Eels will wear a predominantly yellow jersey as a mark of respect to Stuart & Thomas Kelly and the “Stay Kind” program.
Ralph Kelly said, “Youth who elect to take their own life may feel blue from depression or a sadness that has not been shared with others. Taking the blue away from the Parramatta Eels jersey colours is a powerful message by the Parramatta Eels to our youth and the community and that message is: “We are here to support you and we can help take those blues away."
Ralph Kelly also said, "Stay Kind is also about listening with genuine intent and care. ‘Ask Me How I Feel' is about asking how someone feels. Stopping to listen can make a real difference to someone’s life. It’s a simple gesture that shows care, empathy and concern. A gesture that shows you value that person. A gesture that is very important for our youth who lack confidence and are vulnerable as they develop into adults."
The Stay Kind initiative will promote the prevention of self-harm and suicide in youth. By encouraging the entire Australian population to care for one another.
To start the conversation about depression and for those people who may be experiencing a difficult time, feeling blue.
Get behind the teams, $30 family tickets until midnight tonight for Sunday’s Round 20 clash, go to: http://ticketek.com.au/staykind
Or to make a donation SMS the word KIND to 0437 371 371 to donate $5 or more, its fast and easy
Or to find out more about Stay Kind, go to: http://staykind.org.au/
*Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
*Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.
*MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.
