Tia McCarthy

Tia was born on 27th July 2003, there was just 20 months between her and her brother Cerion. She weighed 10lbs and had beautiful black, thick, curly hair, which she loved, she didn’t have her first hair cut until she was 7 years old. 

Tia was a shy, quiet child, she had a small group of friends but sadly experienced bullying growing up.  Tia was a kind and thoughtful girl who liked to please everyone, she loved animals, especially her dog ‘Buster’.  She once sneaked a stray cat into her bedroom and wrapped it in a blanket, she called it ‘Lucky’.  Her shyness continued as she entered her teenage years, she preferred spending time by herself, reading and doing ‘diamond art’, she liked shopping but rarely bought anything for herself, she would buy me flowers, blankets, cups and ornaments.  

At around 15 years old Tia’s mental health deteriorated, she would panic that she was not good enough and started to self-harm.  Tia studied social care in Sixth Form but struggled to focus as she started to hear voices.  At just 17 years old, Tia’s dad was diagnosed with cancer, she watched as his illness took over and he sadly died a short while after. 

Tia’s mental health continued to impact on her life, she didn’t know how to manage her emotions, or how to express herself.  Tia became a danger to herself and had several interventions from mental health services.   

It seemed that Tia had turned a corner when she started to work as an Activities Co-ordinator in a care home.  This is where she met Jenna who became her best friend.  Jenna was good for Tia, they would have nights out and Tia came out of her shell, she continued to cry out for help, but we felt consistently let down by the system.   

The night before Tia died, we chatted about hair dye and what she planned to buy Jenna for Christmas; she was quieter that evening, but I didn’t expect what would happen next.  I think Tia’s brain could not take anymore; she tried her best to fight her own worries and thoughts, but they overpowered her. 

Tia died on 12th December 2024, aged 21 years old.  

Shortly after, 2wish came into our lives, within days Jo came out and explained everything to us and gave us so much support.  There was no limit to the time and kindness Jo gave.  2wish recommended a number of services which offered to help our grieving process, and they were only a phone call away when we needed them.  Knowing Jo has given us comfort during this difficult painful time.    

Tia McCarthy 

Always loved,

Never forgotten,

Forever missed.