Joseph’s son was 27 years old when he died by suicide in 2010.
For Joseph, honoring his son means turning tragedy into purpose. Drawing strength from his faith and the support of his community, Joseph ensures his son’s legacy continues through meaningful action.
Joseph is passionate about his advocacy work, partnering with various organizations to make a difference in mental health awareness. He currently serves on the Samaritans Council, where he practices what he calls his “ministry”—a mission to support suicide prevention organizations and educate others on mental health and mental illness.
Joseph shares how he celebrates his son’s life and achievements. Through sharing his story, he hopes to reach other parents, guardians, and caretakers who have lost loved ones to suicide.
We’re now 15 years out and I’m still involved in what I call my ministry and my ministry is to address this. That’s how I coped with it.
Get Support
If you have lost someone to suicide, you are not alone. Samaritans is here to offer suicide loss survivors nonjudgmental listening and peer support through virtual and in-person programs, including a support group for parents and guardians who have lost a child to suicide.
