After Bryce Gowdy’s suicide, let’s elevate the conversation about poverty’s effects on youth | Commentary [The Orlando Sentinel]

After our family experienced homelessness as a result of Hurricane Florence, I was compelled to have my children view his mother YouTube video expressing her heart. As we watched his mother's YouTube video last week I challenged  my children to understand the importance of support and self-advocacy. In fact, I explained to them you never understand how life is impacting another person because we were in the same situation. I wanted each of my children  to consider the  positive impact support systems made in our life during a transition that was no fault of our own.

I was beyond touched with this story which hit very close to home. I am recently looking for an avenue to speak with his mother via video, email, or phone call. I desire to provide comfort her with words of support during her time of need. Especially, as a Licensed Professional Counselor that encountered a very similar setback in life. I hope his mother has been able to get the assistance and support necessary to help the family move forward. I pray, she will have every basic need met and beyond. I pray comfort among the entire family including the community. It was personally a very difficult experience for our own family.  I thank God for my loved ones, support system and my church family. I honestly, will never forget the difference real supports make in your life especially during the lowest seasons.