🎙️ The Glitter Effect – Episode Summary
Guest: Matt Cronin, Co-founder of the Pat Cronin FoundationHost: Kate GnielTheme: From Tragedy to Legacy – Choosing Courage, Kindness, and Change
In this heartfelt and powerful episode of The Glitter Effect, host Kate Gniel sits down with Matt Cronin, co-founder of the Pat Cronin Foundation and proud father of Pat Cronin, whose life was tragically cut short in 2016 due to a coward punch attack.
What begins as a story of unimaginable loss transforms into a moving discussion about resilience, purpose, and advocacy. Matt shares the emotional journey of losing his 19-year-old son, Pat, following a senseless act of violence during a night out with friends. Pat was doing exactly what he’d been taught — looking out for his mates — when he was struck by a single punch that ultimately ended his life.
Matt opens up about the immediate aftermath of Pat’s injury, the strength of his family, and the pain of turning off life support just days later. But rather than letting grief consume them, Matt and his family channelled their heartbreak into action. Through the Pat Cronin Foundation, they now dedicate themselves to educating young people, promoting non-violence, and encouraging others to “choose to walk away.”
Listeners will be inspired by Matt’s unwavering commitment to change, the values of kindness and courage that Pat embodied, and the ripple effect one life can have when honored with love and purpose.
This episode is a moving tribute to Pat and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
🕊️ “We’re a family of five, and we’ll always be a family of five.” – Matt Cronin
Pat Cronin Foundation:
https://patcroninfoundation.org.au/
