Thirty years has passed. Thirty years in my life that has seen numerous jobs, two stints at university, we said goodbye to my Dad, had two beautiful daughters to make a total of four beautiful girls in mine and Karen’s life. We’ve had weddings and grandchildren and more ups and downs than the Big One in Blackpool.
All in all a normal thirty years that many people could write about. Then there’s the but….
But on the 15th April 1989 I was in pen 3 of the Leppings Lane end at Hillsborough. Thirty years ago. Thirty years! Amidst all the normality has been the torment, the questions, the anger, the sadness, the confusion, the optimism, the disappointment, the guilt and the helplessness. It’s usually kept hidden in my head, just like the images I carry with me everyday.
I’m fortunate that I’m surrounded by good and caring people and have made some enduring friendships along the way. So on this day, thirty years on, I’ll remember the 96 who didn’t come home, my thoughts are with their families. I’m also here for the ones who like me made it back, some scarred both physically and mentally from the scene that we escaped.
Justice for the 96 - Justice for ALL
