Jason loved learning and was a joy to be around. He dreamt of being a pilot and set out on his life’s journey. However, during his first college semester, he broke his elbow, was placed on pain medication and everything changed. He dropped out of college and spent many years in the throes of addiction. His mom, Dianne, dreaded getting “the call” and on July 1st, 2019, that day came when she found our Jason had passed away at 34.

Dianne tries to concentrate on not asking “why” but asking how she can find meaning in her life. She honors her son’s memory through painting, prayer, poetry and placing her son’s picture on a card asking others to perform random act of kindness in Jason’s name. She also became involved with the MISS Foundation https://www.missfoundation.org/ where she found support services for her grief.

If you would like to join Dianne's support group, please contact her at [email protected] 

An Invitation to Awaken

(Composed by Jason’s mom, 3/11/21)

The loss of a child ~raw, relentless and unbearable,

I refuse to vanish in its wake.

To my longing and tired heart, I hold you tenderly bearing witness.

To my senseless incessant chatter, I evoke mindful loving kindness.

Moments of grace invite Holy reflection, asking me to stay... and to Trust.

I died too, to whom I once was; now, a bereaved mother.

Yet, I slowly awaken to who I am becoming, God’s grace gently renewing my aching soul.

I feel more deeply and love more fiercely, with a more divine compassion for all human suffering.

Together in Spirit, my beautiful boy and I, as close as my breath.

Forever and always, awakening to the mystery.

Love, not addiction wins.

 

If you would like to tell your story about an overdose death, please contact Susan Claire at [email protected]

http://grievingoverdosedeath.libsyn.com/

Music provided by La Atlántida