I am from a small country town in Michigan. Moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by way of Chicago, where I had landed a good job.
My son, Sydney, one of three children, grew up, fell in love, and got married. Bought a house. Got a dog. Wow, a lot for a doting Mom to take in.
He was my only son, middle child. He was a kind and loving son; he was a funny and mischievous. I loved him so much. He could always make me laugh and gave the very best hugs.
I was blessed to have him for for 33 years. He resided in Milwaukee.
On December 13, 2008, my life changed forever. A Madison police officer rang my doorbell that Saturday afternoon. Sydney was found dead. Suicide by gun. Worst day of my life.
No more hugs, no more of his wonderful smiles.
He suffered from bipolar disorder. He was in crisis.
Mental illness crises and guns are like gasoline and lit matches—they do not play well together. Irrevocable damage is done. It has to change!