How One Punch Changed Everything for Jake Andrews and His Family
Jake Andrews shares how a single punch altered his family’s life forever
Manchester, UK, Jake Andrews, Alan Andrews, One Punch Violence, Mental Health
Manchester: Eight years ago, Jake Andrews’ life took a drastic turn after a single punch. His dad, Alan, was attacked while out one night, and it changed everything.
Alan was already struggling after losing his wife to cancer. He was outside a nightclub when a man he had a run-in with earlier hit him in the back of the head.
That punch knocked him out cold, and he lay there for ten minutes, bleeding. The aftermath was devastating; he suffered a stroke and ended up in a wheelchair.
Sadly, just months later, Alan took his own life at only 46. Jake and his brother were left to pick up the pieces after losing both parents in such a short time.
“My world came crashing down,” Jake, now 29, said. He described his dad as the perfect father, always caring and providing for his family.
After Alan’s death, Jake felt lost. He noticed everyone else going about their lives while he was struggling to cope. It was tough for him to understand why no one else seemed to feel the same pain.
Before he passed, Alan encouraged Jake to return to boxing, a sport he loved. Jake tried to honor that wish but faced setbacks, including a battle with Covid.
Now, Jake works as a plasterer and volunteers with a charity called Winston’s Wish, helping young people deal with grief. He shares his story to inspire others.
“Take it one day at a time,” he advises. “Keep moving forward, and don’t freeze in your grief.” He emphasizes the importance of allowing yourself to grieve and find peace.
Jake is passionate about raising awareness of one-punch attacks, which can have devastating consequences. He knows firsthand how a single moment can change lives forever.
There have been many tragic cases of one-punch violence, and Jake believes it often stems from alcohol or peer pressure. He wishes people would think twice before acting out.
A new play called One Punch is set to premiere in Manchester, highlighting the impact of such violence. It’s based on true events and aims to raise awareness about the issue.
One Punch will be performed at the HOME theatre from February 12 to 15, and tickets are already on sale.