Chorley woman’s tragedy can now help others (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Chorley woman’s tragedy can now help others

11:50am Wednesday 18th July 2012 in Chorley By Chris Gee, Reporter

A YOUNG woman whose father killed her step-mother before committing suicide realised her dreams this week after graduating as a forensic psychologist.

Kirsty Weller, 20, who describes herself as “old before my time”, achieved her success while juggling her studies, working as a support carer for the elderly and also spending hours providing emotional support to victims of crime for Victim Support.

Kirsty, from Chorley, who is also Edge Hill University student volunteer of the year, is celebrating after gaining a 2.1 on her Bsc (Hons) Psychology degree.

Kirsty was only 16 when her father killed her stepmother and then committed suicide.

In August 2007, Jodie Lee Weller, 28, was found dead at the family home on Coltsfoot Drive, Chorley.

Mrs Weller's body was found in the boot of the car, where she is believed to have lain for several days.

Graham Weller, 39, was found dead in the garage as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Kirsty said: “I lost my dad five years ago and had the help of Victim Support.

“I was about to start college but because of all the media attention I nearly didn’t go, I was worried that people would recognise me.

“It was so hard for me but I had amazing support. It was then that I realised that I wanted to become a forensic psychologist.”

Kirsty added that her traumatic teenage experience can be of help in her role.

“I don’t bring my sob story to the table, but sometimes if I’m dealing with victims of domestic violence and they are scared to go to court, I can use my experiences to tell them that if they don’t nip it in the bud it will only get worse. I felt I wanted to give something back, which is why I wanted to volunteer for them.”