“Renowned” Cleveland Artist, Derek Hess, drove down to Canal Fulton in March and opened his heart wide to talk about his struggles with Bi-polar and suicide. Then we went and played at a vintage toy store. This episode is “real talk” about taboo issues. Derek has earned his renowned status here in Northeast Ohio and all over the world because he brings a striking visual to worthlessness. A feeling that cannot be describe in words but is “the” reason that we lose individuals to drug abuse and suicide. If you want to help the young minds in your circle make sure they know how much they are worth to you, not just the basic how are yous and I love yous. Help them achieve their goals and tell them how you see them. They may not see it themselves ever, but at least you knew you tried. We are all swimming in a sea of emotions. Let’s all make sure we don’t throwing our emotional weights on someone else’s shoulders. Strong swimmers or not, water has it’s own current and flow, let’s keep an eye out for each other. If you or someone you know struggles with suicidal thoughts encourage them to seek counseling and treatment, express their pain through art, or just tell them why you like their personality and check on them. Let’s create a buddy system! Stay alive out there!

Derek’s newest book “31 days in May” is available now at

www.derekhess.com

Music for this episode provided by Massillon Local singer/songwriter

Cody J. Martin

“Somewhere You’d Rather Be”

www.codyjmartinmusic.com

The saddest song I’ve heard for the saddest art I’ve seen! Thank you both for sharing!