Now it is my turn for sorrow. The husband of a friend of mine took his life last Thur. She was in her first trimester with their 4th child and lost the baby as well. We do not know which came first. The details do not matter anymore. The fact remains she is now left to raise 3 boys under the age of 6 ... a challenge in itself.

Suicide is a difficult situation to understand. I doubt that we, as humans, ever will. It seems so senseless and a waste of a human life, but there is always another side of the "denari" (coin). While I am somewhat in shock, I understand how it was allowed to happen.

This man (31yrs old) was a vet. He did have a slight brain injury which made it difficult for him to remember his meds. This couple applied for help and were denied time and time again, "He is not bad enough for these services." The man was desperate. I face the same thing in my life, so I know how frustrating it can be. Denial/cutbacks in services is the same thing as witholding food and water from an individual. I call this "governmental euthanasia."

He was dedicated to helping others but could not help himself. He was involved in our NAMI affiliate, and a trained teacher for their Peer-to-Peer Program. His heart was in the right place but his mind was unsettled.

I ask that you pray for all who have been affected by his death and their baby's death. Somehow in time we will all find peace.

I guess he went down under and did not have the strength to come up for air.