44 Comments

William, we have never met but I have just read your story. My brother just lost his 25 year old son on Dec. 12, 2021 to suicide. Even after one month, it still remains a complete shock to everyone who knew Thomas Jenkins. No one saw or understood the severity of his depression. Thomas wrote 33 letters to his family and friends. I am so proud of you for walking into your parent's bedroom and asking for help. Although Thomas is no longer with us, your story will be such a blessing to my brother and to so many others, helping them understand the struggles of depression. My brother often says if he can just help one person find The Light, it is all he hopes for. I am so thankful for your slippers and that you have found the strength to share your journey. Your writing is brilliant and powerful. God bless you!

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Thank you so much for your vulnerability. This brought me to tears. I am praying for your whole family.

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Your words were so hard and easy to read all the same. Bless you for sharing your story and thank goodness you are here to tell your story. You are worthy and you are needed more than you know in this world.

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Keep coming back to this story… so wonderfully written love you so much brother - Carson Latta

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Wow! This is amazing and so brave. I knew your mom and dad in college and lost my own father to suicide when I was only 21. The gift of your raw honesty in your posts will help so many others. Thank you.

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Absolutely beautifully written

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William, Thank you for capturing and sharing your journey with the world. A beautifully difficult story to read, but one that will serve many. You are seen, you are known, and you are loved. May you rest peacefully in the grace and love from those whom you’ve touched.

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You are brave, strong, selfless and brilliant. Your words are beautifully crafted. Nothing happens by accident and when you stepped away from your window and into your parents arms, they received the most spectacular gift any parent could ever receive. Your decision to stay and commit to this very difficult work is everyone’s gift. Thank you for choosing to be here and for choosing to share your journey. By saving yourself you have and will save so many others. Always remember that you hold such an important spot in this world and it is a better place every day that you are in it. When you feel down, please continue to find the beautiful words that convince you that you can do this and the “slippers” in your life that ground, comfort and remind you that you have miles left to walk ahead. And also know we are all waiting for your next entry. I love my UGG slippers too!

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Very brave and commendable, thank you for sharing.

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William, I don't know you but I know your mom. I'm so proud of you. You are not alone. You have touched and will continue to touch so many. #stopthestigma

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Thank you for sharing your journey so others can benefit.

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William, We are family, but certainly don’t get to see one another nearly enough!!

You have taken the first step to recovery and healing by admitting your thoughts and plans and sharing with your parents…

I have lost some close friends due to this illness and it hits home…. I am proud of you and you are in my prayers…love you! Sonia Dalton❤️

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William, you are and have always been so special to me. I love you and your family dearly. These brave, courageous words from you are heartbreaking to read, but show how strong you are. Thank you for your openness and honesty. May your story help others who may face the same struggles to know that there is hope. Thank you, precious boy. My prayers to you and your family. You are so loved.

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William, my name is Kyle Shive. I’m your Godmother, Kathryn Meltons sister. My son David and you were friends when you were just babies. I can’t begin to express my gratitude to you. Thank you William for sharing your journey. Thank you for helping others to know that they too can not only get through this but most importantly live joyously. You are an amazing young man. Both of my children have struggled and your bravery showed them that they too can over come. William, I adore you, your mom, your dad and your sisters. You are an inspiration. Much much love, Kyle

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opening up about this is something i aspire to do one day. Those 6 steps were also the scariest thing for me as well. Keep trucking along and using the skills you learned can be my greatest advice. Accepting and understanding your emotions takes a long time but the thoughts will fade away.

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Thank you for sharing your story! I don't know you but I am so thankful you chose life and reached out to your parents! Keep on doing the good work!

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What an amazing young man you are to share such raw, real, gut wrenching emotions with us. By doing so, I’m certain that you are helping so many others with your well written, candid and honest words. Your dad and I were great friends as children and you most definitely exude the kindness and intelligence of a Burleson.

Even though we have never met, I’m so glad that you decided to stay in this world. May your light continue to shine and may you continue to know how loved you are. Most importantly, may you always love yourself. I’m certain that you will be helping so many others as you document your own journey. Much love, light and strength to you and yours.

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