One of the most important people in my life has died, even while I'm struggling to find work during this unprecedented financial and health crisis. I am reluctantly asking friends and loved ones for financial support while I weather these difficult times.


My brother Tom took his own life three weeks ago. He was a pivotal loved one in my life, though we have been estranged for the past few years.

Tom introduced me to my life long passion, roleplaying games. When our father died, I stood by him in speaking authentically about our dad's alcoholism. When it came time for me to come out of the closet, he was the first person I turned to. He responded with love and deep embrace.

He poured himself into being a mentor to the hundreds of theater students who entered his classroom over decades. At the same time, he struggled with depression and complex trauma.

I spent two of the last three weeks with his wife, family, and friends, providing what support I can while police investigated his disappearance. This week, they found and were able to identify his body.

He chose to end his life on a beautiful sandy beach, swimming into the ocean.


This news has come in the midst of the Covid pandemic and my own extended, thus far fruitless, search for a new position. Although I'm still hopeful that I'll find something soon, I would like to ask for your help as my savings and retirement funds begin to run dry.

To start, I am looking to supplement a month of fixed costs, including (but not limited to) rent, Cobra health insurance, cell  phone, and therapy. If you are able to give even a little bit towards that goal, I would be so grateful. 

I feel awkward asking this at a time when so many people are suffering from and protesting police brutality, especially in communities of color.If I am able to find and start a position while there are still funds remaining, I will donate any excess to organizations and bail relief funds for the Movement 4 Black Lives.

Thank you for any help you can provide.