One year ago (to the day) was the scariest night of my life. It was the night I nearly lost my son. What made it especially painful was almost losing him to suicide. Never should an 11 year old hurt like that. Never should a child be in such a dark, lonely state.

Little did I know that the next year would see another attempt, five hospital stays, and countless tests, therapists, counselors and doctors.

Little did I know that another close family member (and my very best friend) would also try to take their own life.

Add to this, four emergency room visits myself, numerous paid days (months, really) lost, and work related injuries and stress. I'm amazed at what has transpired this past year.

This is not a exercise of pain or anger. Nor do I vent frustration or depression. Sadness cannot affect me the same anymore. Life cannot make anything worse than this last year. I won't suffer like this again, but not because I've grown stronger. That which doesn't kill you merely desensitizes you.

Despite it all I will look ahead to the next step. Maybe this new chapter will bring better days......