Trigger warning: This post deals with suicide and may be distressing for some readers.
Just over four years ago, on December 4, 2014, Dan Price was spotted by a security guard walking ‘heel-to-toe’ along a thin piece of railing outside the safety fence on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
It was 5:45am on a Thursday morning, and the city was only just beginning to stir.
Dan was heavily intoxicated and, by his own admission, in a world of his own.
He didn’t quite know why he was there – or what he was doing. Suddenly, the quiet December morning was disturbed by sirens from police, fire and ambulance crews.
The Harbour Bridge was promptly shut down, and traffic was at a standstill.
“The fear and shock that rushed over me was unimaginable,” Dan wrote of the ordeal.
Two years ago, Dan shared a Facebook post sincerely thanking the police and emergency services who saved his life.
“Arun Trevitt was the main Police officer who talked me through a petrifying 20 minutes while my life hung in the balance, before I was lowered a harness to put on so I could get back over the security fence to safety. I have spoken to Arun since, and sent thanks to all those who did an amazing job to help save me that morning,” Dan wrote.
This time of year could be very different for Dan’s family and friends.
“For those that know and love me, the 4th of December could forever be the day that breaks their heart. The day they lost their grandson, son, brother, uncle, nephew and friend. I know that their lives would’ve been shattered forever, because I have spoken with many people who have lost loved ones to suicide. I am so sincerely thankful and grateful it isn’t that day, but sadly it is that devastating day of mourning, pain and loss for many others across Australia.”
Dan also shared the email correspondence sent from his parents to Trevitt at 4:45pm that afternoon, sincerely thanking him for his compassion and “persistent effort” in saving the life of their son.
“My wife Cate and I just wanted to thank you for your persistent efforts to save our son in the early hours of this morning…He is a lovely sensitive bloke, well worth saving..hopefully he can see the light at the end of the tunnel and embrace the difficult road to recovery. Given your wonderful work this morning, at least he now as the choice.”