Those of us who have lost a child CRAVE pictures and memories about our child more than ANYTHING in the world because it’s all we have. One of the things people will tell you is that once someone dies, you find out all these things about your loved one that you never knew and it makes you smile.
But I have to tell you that those of us who have lost a child by suicide from stigmatized illnesses like addiction and depression, just don’t hear as much. We hear a lot of silence, awkwardness and change of subject and we rarely get the stories we crave so desperately. I know Charles touched others. The turnout at his memorial service was testament to that.
The New Year makes me feel a little like I’ll be that much further away from his memory and they help me cope with my loss. I am trying to focus on the good times from 2015 like Richard’s graduation, his acceptance at LA Shorts and the Richmond Film Festival as well as the new house. Thanks to all my friends and family for your support this year. Your phone calls, letters, lunches, dinners, donations to Beacon Tree, flowers, t-shirt purchases and comments. It has really helped to be able to be open and honest and to be able to lean on you when I have a rough day.
Do me a favor in 2016 and please take the opportunity to take the taboo out of suicide by talking about it.
I know how you feel
Me, too Majorie