Today is that day when, seven years ago, the unthinkable happened and Henry abandoned his future. It’s impossible for me to imagine the pain and the momentary delusion that made him feel that taking his life was the best solution to what he was going through. I can only wish that he had realized at the time that pain can pass, problems can be solved, help can be sought and things can get better – then he would still be with us – and who knows what amazing things he would have done by now!
But if we are going to dream, then this painting by talented artist and illustrator Beth Haidle is what future Henry could have looked like. Based on photos of Henry, it comes from Beth Haidle and Paul du Coudray’s graphic novel The Pipers an adaptation of Phillip K Dick’s short story Piper in the Woods.
Perhaps Henry is just on an extended space mission and he will be back one day. Of course, when he does return, we will all be older and he will still be nineteen.
Send us your story about past or future Henry to 7220days@gmail.com.