When he was 15, Eric lost his mother to suicide. When he returned to school, most adults avoided the subject — until his chorus director got up from the piano and gave him a wordless hug. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. If you live in the United States, you can text or call 988 for support. If you live outside the U.S., go to opencounseling.com to find your local help line.

Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. 

Some guidance:

--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. 

--Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.

--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.

--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.

--If your hero were standing in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

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