07/06/2006

A Message from Joe's Family

Hello Everyone and thank you for coming to our website. We are deeply pained by Joe's passing and struggle with questions that will never be answered. Like us, I'm sure you've asked questions like...why did he make this choice, what if I had done something differently, what if I had just reach out more to him, what was he thinking...these questions will haunt many of us for quite some time. Talking to one another and discussing these questions helps...so reach out to those around you.

We want you to know a few things about Joe. Joe was deeply pained by his Mum's passing back in March of 2005 and Joe was never diagnosed with clinical depression or any mental health disorder. However, it is important for everyone to know that he was talking with us and with a professional about his struggles. We care about each and every one of you and given that Joe was a victim of suicide, we want you all to have access to resources that will help you better understand depression, other mental health disorders and suicide.

Joe was a loving, sweet, good man, but his choice was a bad one and should not be an option in this life...it causes too much pain and anguish for those left behind. For those of you who struggle like Joe did, please know that you are loved and that we want desperately for you to reach out to us, the ones who love you, because nothing is too dark to share with us...we will take you any way that you are. That said however, we understand if you can't share with us your deepest, darkest pain so we would like to ask you to reach out to the many people who want to help you through the resources we've put together here on this website. Calling a hotline, speaking with your doctor or a clergy person is ok. You don't have to suffer alone. There are many people in our community who will help you carry the burden you feel.

We wish you all peace.

God Bless and Love Always!
Joe's Family