A local Dromore-based charity, born from a powerful story of love, loss, and hope, is helping highlight issues around mental health in one of Northern Ireland’s largest industries.
Breaker Breaker is dedicated to enhancing the mental and physical health of individuals within the haulage industry. With a focused mission, the charity aims to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for those experiencing mental health challenges in Northern Ireland’s haulage sector. By raising awareness of available help and support, Breaker Breaker is making strides to ensure that individuals know they are not alone.
Leanne Lyons, a mother of two, has faced unimaginable tragedy with the heartbreaking loss of her husband, David, due to mental health issues. Rather than allowing her grief to consume her, Leanne has transformed her personal tragedy into a passionate mission to help others.
Leanne’s determination stems from her desire to ensure that no other family has to endure the same heartache she has faced. She is committed to changing the conversation around mental health and advocating for greater awareness and understanding.
Speaking to UrbanABC Leanne recalls the start of the love story; “we were just teenagers from Belfast, I was 13 and David was 15.
“David meant the world to me. I lost my mum when I was just 8, and having someone who treated me like I was their everything was an experience I had never known before. We got engaged at 16, we moved to Dromore”.
From a young age, David had an undeniable passion for lorries. His journey began as an HGV mechanic, where he honed his skills and eventually obtained his HGV license at just 21. This early love for vehicles set the foundation for a fulfilling career in the transport industry.
Leanne initially trained as a hairstylist and pursued further education, earning her master’s degree and becoming a colour specialist. In 2006, the pair opened their first salon, marking the beginning of an incredible chapter in their lives. Everything seemed perfect as they built their careers together.
The couple’s joy multiplied when they welcomed their first daughter, Stevie-Lee, in 2008, followed by their second daughter, Ronnie, four years later. David embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly, often seen with his daughters by his side, showcasing his devotion to family.
However, the shadows of mental health struggles eventually cast a pall over their lives, leading to David’s tragic passing.
Leanne shares, “David would occasionally experience low moods, just like anyone else, but everything changed when his sister passed away.
“He would often spend days and weeks in bed, not saying much at all. I took it upon myself to handle everything to make his life easier. It might sound silly, but I would cook his favourite meals, buy him things he liked, and surprise him with little gifts—anything to try to lift his spirits.
“David did visit the doctor a few times for help, and on one occasion, he was prescribed medication, but there was no follow-up after that.
“In 2017, the doctor advised him to exercise, so he hired a personal trainer. From the outside, it looked like we had the perfect life and everything was wonderful. But it was all just a façade, not something we talked about with anyone because that’s how we thought it should be. Looking back, I realise that was a huge mistake”.
David’s death on 2nd December 2018, hit Leanne and the family hard.
“Before he passed, David had gone through some tough months, but he was starting to get better and had returned to work.
“When I woke up that morning, I could just feel that something was off.”
Through her advocacy work, Leanne aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open discussions and support for those in need. Her efforts serve as a beacon of hope for families grappling with similar challenges, reminding them that they are not alone.
The charity is dedicated to raising funds for a ‘Mobile Hub’ that will travel across Northern Ireland, setting up at truck shows, driver lounges on ferries, and other key locations to offer mental health support services specifically for those in the haulage industry.
Leanne adds, “we organise a variety of shows and events to uplift the spirits of those in the haulage sector. Our initiative focuses on providing accessible mental health resources, including text and phone support, as well as face-to-face counselling for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.
“Our ultimate goal is to reduce suicide rates and alleviate stress and anxiety among haulage workers through the services offered by our Mobile Hub.”
In addition to mental health support, Breaker Breaker plans to conduct physical health checks at its lorry shows and when the Mobile Hub is stationed at various companies and on ferries. This comprehensive approach ensures that both mental and physical well-being are prioritised, creating a supportive environment for those in the haulage industry.
Leanne’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. By sharing her story, she not only honors David’s memory but also inspires others to seek help and support. Her mission continues to gain traction, creating a community of individuals committed to fostering understanding and compassion around mental health issues.
Leanne exemplifies how one person’s story can ignite change and inspire hope. Her advocacy work is a powerful reminder that love can transcend loss, and through shared experiences, we can build a more supportive and understanding society.
Follow Breaker Breaker on Instagram here or Facebook here