Written By: A Survivor Who Believes in You

Some years ago, my world fell apart. I felt hopeless, powerless, like I was drowning in a sea of sadness. Day by day, I tried to hold on, hoping that the pain would fade, that something would change. But it felt like I was treading water in the deepest ocean, and no matter how hard I tried, I was losing strength.

I didn't have the words to ask for help. I was just existing—going through the motions, a shell of who I used to be. I felt like I was disappearing inside myself, dying a little more each day, even though I was still breathing.

I tried to be strong for everyone who looked up to me. I didn’t want to let my family down, my friends, my kids, my grandchild. But the truth is, the pain inside was suffocating me, and no matter how hard I tried to shake it off, it only grew. I thought, "Maybe the only way to escape, to truly breathe, is to die." I made a plan. I wrote letters. I thought I could ease their pain by explaining my decision.

But on the day I planned to leave this world, something unexpected happened—a stranger I had never spoken to, someone who didn’t know my struggle, asked me one simple, powerful question: "Are you planning to hurt yourself?" And for the first time in months, I told the truth. His courage to speak up saved my life. That question pulled me out of the current I felt was dragging me under. It gave me permission to seek help.

I am still here today because of that stranger’s bravery, and now, I get to live. I get to wake up each morning, enjoy a cup of coffee, laugh with my loved ones, and look forward to new memories—memories I would have missed had I let go.

I know not every day is easy. I still have to face tough moments, and I had to grieve the things that led me to that dark place. But I am alive. I belong. And you do, too.

If my story feels like your story, let me be the stranger who reaches out to you today. You are not alone. You are loved, and you belong in this world. Whatever pain you're facing, it’s not permanent. There are sunrises you’re meant to see, people you’re meant to meet, and moments you’re meant to experience.

If you're thinking about hurting yourself, please, reach out. Call 988, go to the emergency room, or call me personally at 760-500-9964. I’m here for you. I believe in you.

And if you, like me, have survived those dark days, your story is powerful. People need to hear it. Don’t let your darkest moments become a source of shame. Instead, let your story be a light for someone else who is struggling. Your hope can be the strength someone else needs to hold on.

If you know someone who is struggling, don’t wait—reach out to them today. Ask the hard questions, stay with them, and help them get the support they need. You could be the person who saves a life.

We need you. You are loved. And the world is better with you in it.

With love and hope,
Shannon