Wests Tigers Player Praised for Compassionate Intervention

Wests Tigers player Taylan May has received widespread commendation for his role in preventing a young girl from taking her own life. The 24-year-old athlete’s actions were recently shared by his teammate and older brother, Terrell May, during an interview on a new podcast hosted by former NRL star Josh Mansour.

Taylan May has openly discussed his own recent struggles with mental health, including a bipolar disorder diagnosis and a stay in a psychiatric ward. Terrell May revealed that his brother drew upon these personal experiences to offer support to the distressed young girl.

A Mother’s Plea and a Life-Changing Encounter

“Some girl who was going through the same things that ‘Tiny’ [Taylan] had experienced, her mother reached out to us via email and letter. Her daughter was contemplating suicide,” Terrell May recounted. “Then she came to a game. Tiny found her, signed her belongings, and afterward, her mother said that her daughter has been the happiest person ever.”

Terrell explained the critical timing of the encounter. “That was the day before we played, so she was planning to do it [take her own life] the next day. When Tiny went and signed her things and gave her boots, she said that was the best feeling she’d ever had.”

May’s Story Inspires Others

Terrell, the middle of the May siblings, highlighted the significant impact Taylan’s personal journey has had on younger individuals. “She [the girl he helped] said she loves Tiny’s story and how open he’s been about it,” Terrell shared. “We’ve had several people reach out to us about Tiny’s experiences and also about our podcast, saying it has helped them immensely.”

Overcoming Personal Challenges

Taylan May joined the Wests Tigers as a free agent midway through the previous season. This move followed the dropping of domestic violence-related charges, which had led to his dismissal from the Penrith Panthers. His off-field challenges prompted him to seek professional treatment, an experience he described as transformative.

Earlier this year, Taylan spoke about his mental health journey: “I always felt different. I just didn’t know what it was, and when I finally got diagnosed [with bipolar disorder], it was a relief off my shoulders.” He continued, “I see a therapist and I have my own psychologist. For me, it was a relief because when I was young, my parents didn’t understand – I felt that I was the weird one. I take these tablets, I don’t touch anything else, but I feel like they’re working. My wife’s helped me a lot, to be honest; she’s always known I’ve had something.”

May has increasingly been recognized as a positive role model since his transition to the Tigers from Penrith.

For confidential support regarding mental health, individuals can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.