My family suffered an unimaginable loss this week when my oldest son, Jonas, passed away from an accidental overdose. He was 23.

Jonas was the heartbeat of our family, and he loved fiercely—both family and friends. He would do anything for the people he loved. Jonas was incredibly funny and a joy to be around. He loved music and making music. He was very talented and seemed to be good at nearly everything he set his mind to.

Life was not easy for Jonas, however, and he struggled with addiction and mental health issues. Recently, he successfully completed a one-year rehab program and he had over a year clean. He was excited to move on to the next phase of treatment; however, he was denied the option of getting mental health assistance if he continued. Undeterred and understanding his own needs, he came home to us a hero and we reveled in his accomplishment and spent time together while he tried to find a program that would allow him to treat both issues.

Unfortunately, on May 11th, I found my beautiful boy overdosed on the bathroom floor. He was ultimately revived but had suffered a catastrophic brain injury from lack of oxygen. I just did not find him in time. On May 12th, surrounded by loved ones, we watched him take his last breath. The cavernous void left behind is unimaginable. Jonas touched so many lives and meant so much to so many.

We want to celebrate his life and we want to bring his sister and her girlfriend here from Florida for the celebration. Any funds raised will be used for the costs of travel, the cost of the celebration, and items used to memorialize our Jonas. Your donations mean the world to us, please help us honor Jonas and the life he lived that was cut so short. Our hearts are forever broken!! Until we meet again, my beautiful boy! I love you, Jonie!! ❤️