The holidays are tough
June 2008 was a difficult month for my family. We lost 2 wonderful women who chose to die by suicide.
The last thing you expect when you go to work on a Wednesday morning is receiving a phone call telling you that someone close to you has died by suicide. This is what happened right before I was going to lunch on June 11th. June 12th I was in Chicago, with the rest of my family, trying to comprehend what happened in the last 48 hours and not leaving my Father’s side while he was in grief. The week was a blur.
Now it’s Sunday June 22nd. 11 days later. I’m back home and recovering from a very emotional week. The phone rings and it’s my sister, “are you sitting down…Mom’s gone. You need to get back on a plane again. She took her own life last night.”2 amazing women, 11 days apart, chose to die by suicide. The previous week I held things together so I could be strong for my Father and step-siblings. I just sat on the bed and broke down. I didn’t have any more strength, but here I was, on a plane back to Chicago to do it all over again.There’s not a day that goes by that I think about them and what they meant to so many friends, family, and strangers. Please give generously so people can get the help they need. Always remember…we are not alone…you are not alone.
In a couple of weeks, December 30, I am celebrating my 50th birthday. I'm using it to educate and create awareness. My wife, sister, and close friend have planned a big casino night/raffle/birthday party where all the proceeds are going to the Arizona Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. If you would like to attend, message me directly (by the 16th) and I'll put you on the guest list and send you the details. I've also created a fundraising page in case you or your company would like to make a donation before the end of the year. The donation is tax deductible and I have a Tax ID letter if your company requires it.
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Remember that you are never alone. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 9-8-8 for help.
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1 年Jason! I have also lost a parent this way; no matter how many years pass, they will always be your parent! So glad you have such a supportive group to surround yourself with during this season! Bless all chapters of the AFSP!
WHAT I DO: Is your business your retirement plan? Really? What if you have to exit due to disability, death? If you make it to retirement, is it saleable? 70% of businesses listed for sale never sell...!!
1 年So sorry, Jason! Happy to support you and your mission.
First, I am so sorry to hear of your losses. I met you around 2008/2009 and I would have never guessed you had recently gone through this. Thank your for sharing your message! Holidays are tough, I have my own issues with them. Stories for other times. Second, happy birthday! That's a big milestone!! Keep being your wonderful self!