Support Final Care for Timothy Sullivan

It is with a very heavy heart I share that my dad, Timothy Sullivan, died on Sunday by taking his own life. Brandon and I are completely heartbroken, shocked since he had been doing so well, and cycling through many other emotions we’re still trying to process.

As those close to me and my family know, my dad has struggled with his mental health his entire life. The past ten years have been especially challenging. For a few years he was moved from one facility or hospital to another, each demonstrating their inability to safely care for him. During that time I became my dad's Medical Power of Attorney in order to ensure he was getting the care he needed, at times petitioning before judges in order to advocate for his care. Twice he went missing from care facilities and I wholeheartedly thank those of you who helped us find him both times. Both times it was you - my family, friends, and community - who helped find him. Thank you so much for that.

Seeing how my dad was suffering with the system meant to help him, Brandon and I made a decision that would be life-changing for all three of us. Seven years ago we purchased a home in Washington where my dad would have easier access to better mental health care and closer proximity to the area's largest VA hospital. My dad moved in, and Brandon and I have been his caregivers ever since. Caregiving is hard, especially for someone as complex as my dad, but his quality of life improved so much, making it all worth it. The past seven years we have helped him through all of his ups and downs, while also being mindful of the risk he posed to himself. That’s why this loss feels not just devastating, but deeply shocking.

Despite his struggles, my dad did his best to not lose his sense of humor. If you knew him, you probably remember his goofy jokes and the sideways smile he'd flash while waiting for your reaction. He could talk endlessly about 60s and 70s rock trivia. He loved being outdoors—some of my earliest memories are of us on trails or in parks. And he loved animals, even when he pretended to be annoyed by the cats going into his room to meow at him, asking for a No Trespassing sign just for them.

His death was unexpected, and we were not financially prepared for this. Over the past few days, many of you have kindly asked how you can help. While it’s difficult for me to ask, any contributions to help cover the cost of cremation would mean so much to Brandon and me. My dad loved the ocean, so we plan to spread his ashes there in time.

Thank you all for your love, support, and kindness. We’re leaning on our community more than ever right now.