Paul became unwell in October 2023 with a reactive depression and took his life in July 2024. Despite accepting support in terms of medication, therapy, and ongoing family love and support, Paul showed little to no improvement during his 10-month battle.

During this time, changes in Paul's personality were observed by his family, and he himself commented "something has happened to my brain." As a result, he agreed to be assessed for a condition called CTE—a degenerative brain illness caused by repeated concussions in contact sports such as rugby, football, and boxing.

We know from Paul's time as a semi-professional rugby player, he experienced more than his fair share of concussions, and retired early from the sport on medical advice, prioritising his health and soon to be a father role over his passion for rugby.

Sadly, Paul took his life before any assessment for possible CTE could take place, therefore we will never know if Paul was right, that something had in fact happened to his brain in that CTE was present.

Raising awareness of CTE in sports, educating players about the risks, and funding more research into this life-changing illness will always be a cause the Brett family and his friends will support. These efforts will forever be close to their hearts, especially in memory of Paul's last months.

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On Paul’s behalf and for all those suffering with CTE thanks for your support.