01/18/2026
So I did something this week that I never imagined I would be able to do.
I stepped out of fear and spoke publicly about my son, Alex—and about my passion to help others turn pain into purpose. 🙏😇
Today reminded me that healing doesn’t mean the pain disappears—it means we learn how to carry it with meaning, love, and intention.
Dawn, who also lost her son Jon to su***de, and I are honoring our boys by working in the community to create safe spaces for healing, connection, and support—the very support we wish we had when our boys were struggling with their mental health.
Alex’s journey with mental health was brief but intense, following several life events that left him feeling lost and desperate. Like Dawn, I experienced firsthand how broken and overwhelming the system can be. We didn’t know where to turn. We were trying our best—and it wasn’t enough.
That shared experience is what brought Dawn and me together.
Out of unimaginable loss, we chose to create something meaningful.
This is why we founded BRAVE – The Alex & Jon Project—to turn pain into purpose, to bring resources, awareness, voice, and empowerment to others, and to honor our sons by helping families feel less alone.
Today was emotional. It was vulnerable. And it was healing.
And it reminded me that even in grief, something beautiful and purposeful can grow.
Sending my love 💚💜🌈✨🪽🪽🌟🌟