John

I’ve been lucky and blessed to have always been shown what love is. While living in Miami, FL, I was surrounded by love and by a Mom and Dad who did everything they could to keep my sister and I happy, with fond memories of summer beach trips to visiting the mountains. My parents truly wanted me to choose the best path for myself. Like others, I was involved in Boy Scouts, Church Youth Group and even the Theatre Club. Organizations that bring together the community helped me become the person I am today.

At age 17, I came out as a gay man. This was not a surprise to most, but to others it was a difficult realization for them. After coming out, I started to really struggle with self-doubt and depression. Like many in my position, I began over thinking that I was “made wrong” or even that I was useless, making for a daily challenge. It was then I learned I was not the only person in my family who struggled with depression. My Dad had a constant battle with bipolar disorder, depression, and substance abuse. Not because he identified as gay, but because he just did not feel he belonged. 

I later moved to New York City to finish college. The day after I graduated, at age 23, I got a call from my sister saying that my father had taken his own life. Suicide became as real as ever in that moment. Years after, my sister, who is my champion, started to work with nonprofits to help survivors of those who had taken their own life. She says it is so simple, yet it is always so effective. “I want to spread love”. This motivated me to join A Little Love nonprofit. To spread love to all who are in most need of it. 

Life is not easy, but I believe together and with love, we can rise above it all!