Otis Lawson highlights the profound impact of losing his brother Godwin to violence, stating, "That scream, I will never forget that... something just went through me... I knew my brother had passed away." This moment remains seared in his memory, showcasing the deep grief and trauma experienced after losing a loved one to violence.
Reflecting on his struggles, Otis notes, "Having a big brother to speak to... he was good at football, obviously, really talented, quite popular. I always looked up to my older brother." This longing for guidance and companionship underscores the devastating loss of his hero and role model.
Otis illustrates the challenge of dealing with grief and societal pressures, saying, "It would have been easy for me to go down the route other people take... People might feel like they need to carry a knife in order to survive." His acknowledgment of these routes reveals the harsh reality many face in similar circumstances.
Credit goes to his family support and sport's influence, as he states, "I have definitely seen people take matters into their own hands... but... the loving support of my family... helped me make positive choices and cope with my grief." This emphasizes the importance of community and healthy outlets in overcoming tragedy.
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