Losing my father recently has been one of the most heartbreaking experiences of my life. He struggled for years with his mental health. Often in silence all while trying to be strong for everyone else and carrying a pain that few truly understood. Watching someone you love battle something so invisible and heavy is something that never leaves you. Despite everything he went through, he was kind, loving, and tried his best every single day. His passing has left me with an emptiness that’s hard to put into words. Along with the grief, I’ve been carrying the weight of unanswered questions, guilt, and the deep sadness of losing someone who meant the world to me. Someone who was my best friend.

Since his death, my own mental health has taken a sharp decline. I was living with him at the time of his passing so It’s been difficult to cope, to function, and to stay afloat emotionally and financially. I’m trying to seek therapy and find the right support, but the cost of care.. along with basic living expenses.. has made that incredibly difficult. I’m reaching out not just because I need help, but because I want to heal. Any contribution, no matter the size, would be a step toward stability and a way to honor my father by taking care of the mental health I know he would have wanted me to protect. And to help take care of my two little brothers that are also needing extra steps in this healing journey.

September is Suicide Prevention Month; a time that carries deep personal meaning for me. My father unfortunately had passed away this last month by suicide after years of quietly battling his mental health. To the world, he was strong, funny, and dependable. The kind of person who would give everything to help others. But behind closed doors, he was hurting in ways he didn’t always have the words or support to express. Watching him struggle in silence, trying to protect those around him from his pain, was heartbreaking. Losing him shattered my world. It left me not only with unimaginable grief, but also with a deeper understanding of how overlooked and misunderstood mental illness can be. Especially in the people we think are the “strong ones.”

This month is not just about honoring my dad’s memory, but also about raising awareness for the countless others who are still fighting their battles in silence. Suicide doesn’t just take a life!! It leaves behind unanswered questions, broken hearts, and loved ones doing their best to make sense of the pain. If sharing his story helps even one person feel seen, less alone, or more willing to reach out for help, then his legacy becomes one of hope and healing. We need more conversations, more compassion, and more access to real mental health support. No one should ever feel like they have to suffer alone.

In loving memory of my father❤️ forever in my mind and heart. Please just remember anything helps me and my 2 brothers.