We advocate because we lost our youngest son, Nathan, to suicide at just 15 years old, and that changed everything.

Nathan was kind-hearted and so loved. He was a wonderful son, and he and his three older brothers were best friends. He stayed active in school, band, youth groups, and volunteering in his community. He talked about becoming a doctor or a veterinarian because he wanted to help people and animals feel better, and he loved science. He would have done it, too, because he was brilliant. He loved nature, bike riding, and spending time with his dog Orbit. Nathan was always softly whistling tunes around the house. He brought joy into our home. Everything seemed good and normal.

Like many families, we never imagined suicide would touch ours. We didn’t understand the weight he was carrying until it was too late. When we first realized he was struggling, a little before his passing, we thought it was typical teenage stress and a breakup. We started talking about getting him help. He seemed okay. He was hanging out with friends and making plans. We truly believed we had time.

We didn’t.

Thursday night he went to school, celebrated a friend’s birthday and stayed late for band rehearsal. He had plans with his friends the next day at our house. They never got the chance. Nathan was gone early Friday morning.

Looking back there were signs like his sleeping habits changing and slipping grades.

There are also things we wish we had handled differently, things we now share in the hope it might help someone else.

This is why we speak out.

Because suicide doesn’t only happen in “other” families. It can touch homes filled with love, support, and laughter. It can happen to the child who is smiling, the one everyone believes is okay.

Because time matters. Assuming there is more time can cost everything.

Because asking for help for you or your loved one is not weakness. It is courage. Mental illness is real, and support can save lives.

And because we are losing too many young people. Somewhere right now, a child needs to hear this clearly: you are wanted, you are needed, you are loved just the way you are, and we want to see your beautiful face tomorrow, and every day. Your life matters more than you know.

And finally, as Nathan’s parents, we still want to care for him and honor him like we do for his brothers. Sharing his story is one way we do that. We believe he would want it to help someone who may be struggling in silence.

We are especially grateful to AFSP for giving us this platform and allowing us to turn our grief into meaningful action.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please know help is available. In the U.S., you can dial or text 988 anytime to be connected with support.