How memories of Russ continue to inspire
In memory of Russ – Cath Devereux speaks at the awards , where more than £ 2,000 was raised for the Headlight Project .
The wife of a much-missed Teesside businessman told how her life was “ blown apart ” by his suicide – but she somehow found the strength to set up a charity in his memory
Speaking at the Best New Tees Business Awards , Cath Devereux said the Russ Devereux Headlight Project , which helps children and families suffering traumatic bereavement , was a product of the “ strength and courage needed when we are faced with a situation that feels hopeless and unchangeable .”
And in a powerful , poignant and moving speech , she told those gathered for the awards : “ Life ’ s most challenging moments can produce amazing resilience , courage and creativity .”
Russ Devereux took his own life in May 2018 , aged just 42 , after the accidental death of a driver working for the family firm had a “ catastrophic impact ” on him .
Russ jumped from the Leven Viaduct , leaving behind a devastated Cath and their three young daughters .
Cath said “ wonderful human being ” Russ was “ kind , modest and funny , with a particular and brilliant sense of his own style .” Cath set up the Headlight Project in Russ ’ s name a year after his death . The project now has seven therapists and works with adults and children on traumatic bereavement , particularly suicide .
More than 400 people have been helped so far . In a recent two-week period , its 12 referrals included the death of a healthy baby , and the suicides of a talented musician and a teacher in her 20s .
By offering one-to-one counselling , play therapy and various trauma and behaviour therapies , including many not widely available on the NHS , the Headlight Project provides muchneeded support for people who find themselves in almost unimaginable circumstances .
Working in schools with children , the organisation has offices and therapy rooms in Stockton and Stokesley .
More than £ 2,000 was raised for the charity at the awards night .
AWARDS 2021
Roll call of winners and finalists
Best New Business – Nudl Sponsored by PD Ports
Finalists – Hogg Global Logistics , Bespoke Health
Best New Entrepreneur – Sarah Thompson ( TOM-O )
Sponsored by Enterprise Made Simple
Finalists – Karla Edwards ( The Protection Parent ), Joanna Wilson ( The Brown Box )
Most Original New Business – Refill Weigh Save
Sponsored by Inn Hospitality Group
Finalists – Cornerstone Visual Media Solutions , Salt Steel Brewing Co
Best New Creative Business – Cornerstone Marketing Solutions
Sponsored by Teesside University Finalists – Abby + Owen , Social Allies
Best New Hospitality Business – Space Meetings and Events
Finalists – The Truffled Hogg , the Green Apple Café and Bistro
Best New Retail Business – Audrey Alice Clothing Boutique
Finalists – The Slobbery Dog , Sugar Noms
Best New Services Business – Nudl
Sponsored by Cornerstone Business Solutions
Finalists – New World Financial Group , Vistech Services Personnel
Best New Manufacturing Business – Wavecon
Sponsored by Jacksons Law Firm
Finalists – ZAPNCRAFT , The Prop Making Company
Best New Community Champions – Kay Coleman Associates
Sponsored by Vistech Services
Finalists – Engineering Together , Redcar Cleveland and Beyond
Best New Apprentice – Mitchell Hillyard ( Greenology )
Sponsored by Bespoke Health
Finalists – Jack Hobson ( Life Ninja Education ), Leisha White ( Beyond Housing )
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