Kieran Foran recognises late stepson after being awarded Ken Stephen Medal

Ken Stephen Medal winner Kieran Foran emphasised the importance of mental health at the Dally M Awards on Wednesday night, while recognising the death of his late stepson.

The award recognises the efforts of an NRL player who has achieved on the field and has committed significant time to the community.

Foran, who has endured his own challenges off the field in an NRL career spanning 17 years, founded Logan's Legacy during his time on the Gold Coast in memory of his stepson, who took his own life in 2023.

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The tragedy sparked Foran into action in the latter part of his career, using his own experiences to become an advocate for mental health, especially for young men.

"I'd like to particularly recognise my wife Karina. I know today is especially hard for you. Logan's birthday, he would have been 22 today," he said.

"Your love, strength and belief to keep going in tough times like these has been and will continue to be a guiding light, so thank you.

"Due to the challenges we've faced as a family, an area very close to my heart is mental health.

"I know I'm in a privileged position to have a voice and I found that being open about my own journey, not just the successes but in particular the struggles, has helped others to realise they are not alone."

Foran dealt with his own struggles with addiction earlier in his career, and urged everyone in attendance to have "raw and open conversations".

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"As important as it's been to share my own story, listening to the stories of others has been incredibly empowering and uplifting," he said.

"I know the courage it takes first-hand to reach out and say I'm not OK and it's those deep, raw and real conversations that remind me why connection truly counts."

The recently retired playmaker has devoted much of his time to mental health initiatives, including playing a hands on role in Titans' dedicated Logan's Legacy match last year which raised over $40,000.

Additionally, Foran has forged a strong connection with the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation, personally visiting young patients who are battling serious illnesses.

"Kieran is an exemplary human being and the ultimate role model – not only for our playing group, but for the wider rugby league community," Titans chairman Dennis Watt said.

"His leadership, humility and willingness to give back embodies everything this award represents.

"We're incredibly proud of the impact he has made on and off the field, and while he has now hung up the boots, I have no doubt he'll continue to be an inspiration in our community as he enters the next phase of his career."

If you or anyone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via lifeline.org.au. In an emergency, call 000