We lost our beloved son, Tommy, to suicide nearly 18 years ago. He was only 17 years old. Each year I find it more difficult to express what is in my heart. I've learned to live with the loss, but never have I lost the spirit of the adolescent that brought joy to family and friends. Tommy has been described in so many ways -- a fabulously witty personality, a gregarious nature, a loyal friend, a math genius, a curious mind, spoke up when he saw injustice, was a friend of the "underdog" and dreamed of bowling a perfect game. He was passionate about Star Wars, Jack Bauer and even Harry Potter. But deep inside Tommy there was a disease. At the time we were unable to help him, unable to find a treatment to prevent the irrational thinking that led to his suicide. 

A lot has changed in 18 years. The mental health crisis and suicide epidemic are being recognized, particularly as it affects our young people and those in military service and our veterans. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is a leader in funding suicide prevention research, programming to educate and raise awareness, support for those who suffer and those who have lost loved ones to suicide, and advocacy at all levels of government. Advances in technology are leading to ways of predicting suicide and timely interventions. Advances in genetics and technology are providing valuable insights into the diseases of the brain. This is all very HOPEFUL.

And some things have not changed. We are still losing too many precious lives to suicide. That is why the work of the AFSP is so very important. By supporting me or any one of my teammates you are providing valuable funds for the AFSP to continue on it's goal of reducing the suicide rate 20% by 2025. There is much to do. Financial donations are important, as is our behavior -- Be kind, thoughtful and understanding. Encourage candid conversations and honest discussions about mental health. Seek help for yourself or a loved one when necessary. Advocate at all levels of community and government. 

Join us on our journey...and thank you for whatever you can do to save precious lives from suicide.