I’m Simon Keith Preston, an advocate for male mental health, neurocognitive equity, and bereaved fathers—but most importantly, I’m a father who has experienced the depths of grief firsthand. The Year of Firsts is not just a book; it is the result of my own journey through loss, a deeply personal reflection on the reality of bereavement, especially for men who often grieve in silence.
Writing this book helped me process my own grief, making sense of the milestones that followed loss—the first birthday without them, the first holiday, the first time I found myself smiling again and wondering if it was okay to feel happiness. Too often, bereaved fathers are expected to suppress their emotions, carry on without support, and never talk about the complexities of grief. This book challenges that. It validates the experience of grieving fathers, offering space to reflect, acknowledge, and ultimately, find ways to move forward while holding onto what was lost.
I don’t have a team behind me—this project is entirely my own, fuelled by my passion to ensure bereaved fathers are seen, heard, and supported. However, I am very open to developing collaborative partnerships with anyone who wishes to be involved.
How I Will Use the Funds
The money raised will go directly towards bringing this book to those who need it, ensuring its message reaches grieving fathers who may not have found support elsewhere. Specifically, it will help fund:
- Production & Printing: Creating high-quality copies that can be made available to individuals, bereavement support networks, and charities.
- Distribution & Outreach: Making the book accessible to grief organisations, libraries, and workplaces that need a better understanding of male bereavement.
- Community & Conversations: Hosting online discussions, live meet-ups, and webinars to encourage real conversations about grief and fatherhood.
- Campaign Awareness: Using social media, advocacy networks, and partnerships to amplify the book’s reach so fathers know they are not alone.
This book is not backed by a publisher or an organisation—it’s just me, sharing a story that deserves to be heard. With your support, we can ensure bereaved fathers navigating loss never have to feel invisible in their grief.