The Inspiring Story of Rugby Star Billy Museveni Isabwa: World Suicide Prevention Day September 10th

Suicide is described as the intentional act of taking one’s own life. It is a complex issue which is caused by many factors. This includes mental health disorders, social isolation, economic hardship, substance abuse among others. While it can be a devastating event for individuals and families, it is important to remember that suicide is preventable.

Globally, men are more likely to die by suicide than women, with men accounting for over 70% of all suicides. Factors such as societal pressures, reluctance to seek mental health care, and methods used contribute to this disparity. This trend holds across continents, including Africa and Kenya.

     “I was dying inside.” — Billy Isabwa

Billy Museveni Isabwa, 29, is a Former Rugby player who has battled with suicide. The Research graduate from the University of Nairobi has had three suicide attempts. In addition, Billy also struggled to cope life with suicidal thoughts.

Billy’s descent into darkness began during his university days, with a series of injuries and setbacks. This led to a spiral of self-doubt and despair. The pressures of performing at a high level, coupled with financial difficulties and the emotional toll of his injuries, pushed him to the brink. In his darkest moments, Billy contemplated ending his life.

The bubbly Billy recalls feeling like a failure. In amidst of all this, he saw people around him progressing, and he could not understand why that was not the case for him. In his words It was a constant battle with myself and I felt trapped in a cycle of negativity.

First Attempt.

” You are not in the records” These were the words that begin shattering the rugby player. Billy was admitted to MP shah hospital with serious injuries on his face. To date he has a depression that remind him of the hurt. 

Billy who was in critical condition was this close to getting on a wheelchair. He sustained injuries to his spine.

In what he described as betrayal, Billy saw friends whom he cherished turn cold and a team he passionately played for unavailable during his time of need.

Unfortunately, Billy was advised not to get back to the field. His condition didn’t allow him to pursue his passion. Billy was in a bad state. 9 month rent arrears and friends who took care of him while sick. Staying at luckysummer at the time, the once productive Billy was helpless. To add insult to injury, Billy was broke.

A knife, A mirror, and locked doors.  Billy who had company was in despair. His normal life was now in shambles.  Looking himself in the mirror, Billy found solace in taking his own life.

Second Attempt

Thika town, Billy was lost in thought. Looking at the fleet of cars passing by the footbridge. Billy was routed on the spot, gazing at the road. Feeling of hopelessness and lost is what went through his mind.  Billy stood there thinking of throwing himself and getting hit by the many cars.

Third Attempt

North America is where Billy had set his eyes on. Canada had promised to fulfil his love for the game. Billy secured a spot to play in Canada, rekindling his Rugby dreams.

A random search in a foreign country escalated to Billy in Jail. At the border, Billy was subjected to Interrogation and time wastage. His trip to Vancouver was met with miscommunication. Billy lost his hook and found himself in jail.

Before Injury, Billy weighed between 100+ kg mark, now he weighed 77 kg which termed him as out of shape. His life at the time was marked by setbacks and challenges. He was driven by a deep sense of hopelessness and despair.

“I realized that I had to fight for my life, both on and off the field.” — Billy

Despite his efforts to hide his struggles, the signs of his mental anguish were evident to those closest to him. In public, he would cover up with a smile with the phrase, “I am a man.” However, Billy was walking dead.

“I realized that I had to fight for my life, both on and off the field.” This is a testament to Billy’s recovery. His support from family, opening up to close friends and strangers, so Billy bounce back. In what he terms as the universe and God, Billy reminisces strangers who narrated their various ordeals that seemed to be bigger than his. The irony that he found was how strong the people were as they carried a smile on their faces. Their motivation and words for to his soul.

Billy’s journey to recovery was not without its challenges. Facing numerous obstacles, including financial hardship, societal pressures, and the complexities of mental health. At times, he isolated himself, struggling to find the strength to keep going.

A significant turning point in his recovery was the decision to open up about his struggles. Sharing his experiences with others helped him to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and find support from unexpected sources.

Talking about my experiences helped me to realize that I wasn’t alone. There are other people who are going through similar things or worse, and we can support each other. Billy admits that it was scary to be vulnerable.

A significant turning point in his recovery was the decision to open up about his struggles.

World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day is marked annually every 10^th of September. The theme for 2024 is Changing the Narrative on Suicide. It emphasizes open conversations to reduce stigma and prevent suicides. This call to action encourages society to foster understanding, prioritize mental health, and advocate for policies that provide mental health support and accessible care.

Billy Museveni Isabwa is a survivor of Suicide attempts thoughts. His story reflects on his bubbly personality. He is a storyteller and an ambitious living life and encouraging others. All on all, Every Cloud has a Silver Lining.

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