Serena and Venus Williams’ nephew, Alphonse, has taken his own life at the age of 21 following a diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease. Alphonse was diagnosed with the disease a few years back and he attempted suicide two-and-a-half years ago.
Alphonse was the youngest son of Sabrina, who is Serena and Venus’ half-sister from their father Richard Williams’ first marriage. “When my son attempted [to end] his life two and a half years ago, I asked God, save his life and give me a little bit more time, please,” Sabrina told The Sun, as quoted on Sportskeeda.
“And God answered my prayers, he did. He gave me two and a half years more than I expected. I knew he was on loan and God called in that loan”.
Alphonse Wiliams had a hard time after the diagnosis
“He was crying last Monday, hysterical crying,” Sabrina said. “The week before, the doctor confirmed what he already knew, that he had Peyronie’s. He had started back at high school. He was going into his fourth semester of computer engineering and was regularly seeing a councillor.”
Sabrina revealed she had a dark stage but the help of professionals helped her overcome her struggles. “I read online for hours. One of the top symptoms is depression,” Sabrina said. “I’m not denying that he died with mental health problems, but I truly believe that if my son got some help, somebody was able to talk to him, I think he would still be here.
“I had my own mental health issues, but it wasn’t until my late 30s that it was sorted out, when I was quitting jobs and jeopardising myself, screwing up, I was just so suicidal. I told my family and was put in hospital for three days.
You need to speak to someone. Mental health is a disease, but I want to tell other people: ‘You can get through this.’
