Losing a child and wondering what could have been

Whilst Father’s Day is a day of love, treats, bonding and a celebration of the father figures in one’s life, there are fathers who have lost a piece of their heart through a missing child; what was once a day associated with joy and fond memories is now a time of dread. 

To mark Father’s Day this year, we share a series of stories from both children suffering from ambiguous loss of their dads, and fathers of a missing child. 

Today, we share the story of Allan Snr, whose son, Allan Bryant Jr. went missing from Glenrothes, Fife, on 3 November 2013.  

Another Father’s Day without my missing son, Allan. This will be the 13th one without you since you went missing in November 2013. 

Father’s Day is a special day for every dad. I have so many memories with Allan: going fishing, playing football, and little family holidays. As the years pass, it gets more difficult each year dealing with Allan not being here.  

What can I say about Allan? He was always the life and soul at parties. Allan had a special character: he got on with everyone, and everyone liked him even though he was full of carry on and always tried to make everyone laugh around him.  

Allan had a special bond with his two sisters Amy and Sophie. I have made up special memories of my son Allan in my head: if he was still here, would he be settled down with children? Would I be a granddad? But I know these scenarios are not real – it’s strange how your mind works.  

I love and miss you every day, son. 

I just want to thank Missing People for being there for myself and my family since our son Allan went missing. In between the emails and their constant support and calling my family, thank you so much for everything. 

Get Help

Ongoing support is available specifically for families and friends who are worrying about a missing person or someone who has been found.

Get emotional support by emailing our Family Support Team, requesting a text back, or contacting them through a call or text on 116 000.

Sign up to be a Digital Search Hero

Sign up for emails highlighting missing appeals, information on how to share the appeals, and more information about our work. It is free to join and you can unsubscribe at any time. Find out more.