Support Groups
Embrace FARM offers peer-to-peer support groups throughout the year. These groups are facilitated by an accredited counsellor, and family members and friends are welcome to join along with those affected by serious injury or sudden death.
All support groups are held in a welcoming, non-judgmental space. We kindly ask everyone to:
- Approach with an open mind
- Participate if you'd like, but it's completely okay if you prefer to just listen
- Give others the space to speak and let them gather their thoughts
- Be patient during quiet moments if someone needs a second to collect their thoughts
- Offer advice only when the person speaking asks for it
Thank you for helping create a supportive and respectful environment for everyone!
Our Support Groups
In research conducted by Embrace FARM in 2015, one of the questions posed was:
“What do you consider are the main supports that are required by those who are dealing with the consequences of a farming accident?”
“The majority of those who responded said “someone to talk to in the same situation”.
Some injuries can be more obvious such as amputated limbs, spinal and brain injuries. However, many injuries can also be hidden. The support group takes the time to speak about all aspects of the person’s individual journey after the accident in a shared and safe space.
Counsellor Led Space for Healing
The group is facilitated by a counsellor and welcomes family members and friends of the farm accident survivor. A family member or friend can be deeply impacted by the accident, adjusting to life afterwards and coping with the many changes this brings with it affects not just the person who has been injured.
Survivor Stories
Peter Gohery
(Board Member at Embrace FARM) – Survivors story after injuries from an unguarded PTO shaft
After a piece of clothing was caught in an unguarded PTO shaft, Peter lost his leg and was left with life-altering injuries. Peter speaks about the aftermath of a serious injury by highlighting the importance, and changing the attitude, for farmers around farm safety.
Ann Doherty
A vicious attack from a bull
After opening the gate to their field to let back in heifers that got out, she was struck into the chest by a bull. Ann speaks about the long-lasting pain after such a serious injury, and adapting to relying on her family more.
Aengus Mannion
Harrowing accident who was crushed by a teleporter
After checking on his cattle, the teleporter rammed Aengus into a tree and pinned him to the spot by his legs. Aengus speaks about the importance of hope and support after a serious injury that left him unsure if life was worth living.
Liam O’Keeffe
Survives an attack from a bull in 2007
After noticing that the bull was brought in with the cows to be milked, Liam went to turn him out when he was struck multiple times. Liam speaks about the importance of caution around bulls, and the use of a chain and ring on the bull that saved his life.
Walking This Journey Together
If you or a loved one has been impacted by a farm accident, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Our Support Groups offer a safe, understanding space where family members and friends can share their experiences, find comfort, and receive guidance as they adjust to life after an accident.
If you wish to join a support group, please call us on 085-7709966 or email us on info@embracefarm.com.