09/27/2026
Three years ago today, I lost my son Ben to su***de.
I spent last week in Cape May, where we used to vacation together. Seeing little kids running on the beach took me right back to those years with Ben, and to this smile. I passed the toy store we went to every night, and visited the arcade, where he was a master at the Claw Machine. I ate at the restaurant where he pulled out my chair for the first time. He always pulled out my chair after that.
Since losing Ben, I’ve moved away from all the places where he grew up. That was hard in ways I didn’t expect. I remember him every day, wherever I am, and I loved being back in a place that holds so many happy memories of Ben.
Every time I look at this picture, I find myself smiling back at him. I know many of you are remembering Ben today, too. I hope seeing his smile brings back a happy memory of him for you.
September is Su***de Prevention Month. If you’re struggling, please know that you don’t have to carry it alone. Reach out to someone you trust, or call or text 988. There is help and there is hope.
For Ben - always loved, always remembered, always missed. ❤️
