Lisa Slater, a 41-year-old mother of seven from Wallasey, has told of her devastation after her 18-year-old son Nathan died on Saturday, November 9, 2024. She had no idea he was struggling with his mental health and said his death came as a "total shock".
Months before his death, Nathan had spoken about his plans for the future and his hope of one day starting a family. On his last day, he called a friend at 1am, saying "sorry, you're a good friend". The friend went to his house the next day, but got no answer. His family then forced open his bedroom door and found Nathan had ended his own life.
A mother's tribute
Lisa previously paid tribute to her "funny, kind and caring" son. She described how Nathan taught himself to play the guitar after asking for one at Christmas, and could play any song. He always had the biggest smile on his face, she said. She also recalled taking him to his first Creamfields festival in 2024, where he was "in awe of the DJs" and later bought decks and began making his own mixes, often calling her late at night to play them.
"We had the best time and we were really looking forward to going together again. I just can't believe he's gone, he's going to leave a massive hole in everyone's lives," she said. Nathan had also started boxing training and was planning a charity match in memory of his father, who died from cancer.
'None of us saw this coming'
"None of us saw this coming. We had no clue at all that he had been suffering with his mental health. It was a total shock for us all. It's just unbelievable. He was making so many plans," Lisa said.
Since Nathan's death, Lisa has tried to keep a sense of normality for her six other children. "The only plus is that Nathan's death brought us all closer together. We've realised how short life is and make the most of holidays, concerts and doing things together," she said. She admitted she had surprised herself with her strength, but found it hard to keep it together when quiet moments catch up with her.
Honouring Nathan's memory
Lisa travelled to Amsterdam last year to mark what would have been Nathan's birthday, a trip they had always planned to take together. She also attended Creamfields again in his honour. With the 2026 festival approaching, she is sharing his story to encourage men to speak out about their mental health.
"Men just don't talk enough. I want to urge people to talk if they are feeling any certain way. I can't stress enough if anyone is having these thoughts to please talk to somebody," she said. Lisa is also calling on authorities to improve mental health provision in Wallasey. "Grief is life-changing, I hope by sharing Nathan's story we can help even just one family," she added.
If you are struggling with your mental health, Samaritans are available day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
