As I started putting together my poems for “A Little More Time” I wanted to make sure that I was being as authentic as I could without ending the book on a sad or hopeless note. I decided that the best way to do this was to start with only a few pieces from the years that I felt suicidal and gradually take pieces from my timeline leading up to 2013 when I first started to feel like myself again. One of the most important things that I figured out from writing the last 22 years is that I feel better when I leave off my journals with a positive message. Now, even on my worst days, even if I write 10 pages about how helpless, humiliated, and disgusted I may feel, I will make it a point to turn it around for the last few lines. When I end with pain, I felt pain. When I ended with hope, it left room for me to keep going. I felt a little more free. I felt a little more able to cope with my life and the world around me. There is a lot of truth to the saying “ We write our own story.” I think that “A Little More Time” is where I first started to realize this.

Today would have been John Kelly's 33rd birthday. We've decided to make it a yearly tradition at the JCK Foundation to honor his memory by re-airing the podcast we created in 2018 in his honor. This episode is John’s story told by friends, family members, and acquaintances. We share their memories of him to show the world who John Kelly was and why his legacy will never die. Sit back, relax, and enjoy learning about the legend that is John Cleaver Kelly.

More stories of John >> JCKFoundation.org/johnkelly

It’s been 8 years since we lost John Kelly. Today is always a heartbreaking day. We miss John so much, his love and energy lit up a room. He was always looking for adventure, and nothing filled him with more joy than seeing a smile on your face. We wish everyone got to meet John and experience the happiness and comfort he gave to so many of us.vJohn was a visionary, he didn’t live his life by the book and he constantly fought for the underdog and for what was right. He wasn’t afraid to dream big, and his vision lives on stronger than ever as he continues to push the JCK Foundation forward. We will never stop dreaming and we love you so much legend. Thank you for being you.

 More stories of John >> JCKFoundation.org/johnkelly

It’s our pleasure to share with you the incredible writing of Joseph Fusaro. Joseph reminds us so much of John Kelly. His natural ability to connect and his instinct for kindness isn’t something you see everyday. We'll be featuring Joe on our blog for the next few months as he tells his story through the progression of his writing. Each excerpt is from a book of poetry or prose Joe wrote over the last decade. Start with Chapter 1 of “A Little More Time” and get lost in the work of a legend.

Enjoy the introduction to The Legends Program!

On this week's episode of #collectedlayers we talk about the faces behind the #KellysHeroes campaign. There's nothing more rewarding than seeing people believe in the work we do at the JCK Foundation. We share the stories of our first 9 "Kelly's Heroes" hosts and how their dedication pushes the #JCKF forward in more ways than one.

Guests: John, MikeHost: JohnEditor: MikeProducers: John, MikeMusicians: TaiCheeba, JaōGraphic: Dom Frabizio

We're now available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.

JCKFoundation.org/collectedlayers

Chris Leddy of @mindful.memos is not only a great writer, but a true explorer of the mind. Here's a short piece introducing himself, he'll be featured on our blog multiple times over the next few months. Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.

JCKFoundation.org/collectedlayers

Writer: Chris LeddyReader: John TessitoreProducer: Mike EspositoPhotographer: Unknown

This week on #collectedlayers we talk with the co-founder of Project Heal, Liana Rosenman. Tomorrow marks the beginning of Eating Disorder Awareness Week and we are so honored to have Liana on this episode. When Liana first struggled with her eating disorder, it happened almost silently. It took a family friend (who had struggled herself) to connect the dots for Liana before she finally started getting the help she needed. This is a common theme as 70 percent of people who suffer from an eating disorder don't get treatment. It's a disorder that often is greeted with confusion and silence. She used her experience to create Project Heal while still in High School to provide hope to others suffering.

Guests: Liana RosenmanHost: John TessitoreEditor: Mike EspositoProducers: John Tessitore, Mike EspositoMusicians: Bobby Davis, TaiCheeba, JaōPhotographer: Unknown

We're now available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.

JCKFoundation.org/collectedlayers

My name is Alyssa Gutierrez and I'm a 16-year old passionate about eating disorder recovery. I strive to help others find the light that hid from me for so long. No one should have to endure such painful and harrowing behaviors as I did. I, along with others, are encouraging you to start and continue recovery. Enjoy our 5th audio blog. Check us out on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.

JCKFoundation.org/collectedlayers

Writer: Alyssa GutierrezReader: Mike EspositoProducer: Mike EspositoPhotographer: Gracie Beth

Dating is something that inevitably effects our mental health, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. The anonymous B + L talk with Mike and John about some of the mechanics behind when and how to open up to your partner about mental health, as well as how to respond if your partner opens up to you! We also touch upon the importance of communication, language, consent and much more.

Guests: B+LHost: John TessitoreEditor: Mike EspositoProducers: John Tessitore, Mike EspositoMusicians: Joanna Schlatter, TaiCheeba, JaōGraphic: Dominick Frabizio

We're now available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.

JCKFoundation.org/collectedlayers