- I
- K
My baby brother passed away a couple of days ago at the age of 23.
We were raised by a single mom and it wasnt always easy. The govt assisted us but supporting her 4 children was hard in every way imaginable. By teenagers all four of us and my mom suffered from mental illnesses, ranging from acute anxiety to depression and some other not fun stuff. This is very common for families living in poverty. Futhermore, this illness is not typically acknowledged in many communities but more specifically to us Mexican - American communities. I remember often hearing "you're fine" "its all in your head" "get over it" "if i can you can" and even simply "go to your room."
My brother often displayed symptoms of his troubles at school or later in work. I will never understand how adults saw my brother's anger and frustrations at such a young age to be deemed as "problematic " instead of asking why and seeking help.
He lived under a cultural stigma that did not acknowledge his issues, therfore thinking his only options were drugs, gangs, prison, and eventually death.
Although I was lucky enough to find the little help that has helped me, I knew my brother still didn't acknowledge his depression and anxiety. The lack of help has lead to a life cut too short, too soon.
Any amount of donations will help our family lay him to rest. Any help is amazing help. He always helped anyone in any way he could. His kindness was endless. He'd give you the shirt off his back if he felt you needed it.
Thank you

