It was a beautiful service, that I was given the opportunity to be part of. I was able to see family that I had not seen in person for over 10 years and reconnect.

My Uncle was 79 years old, but suffered mentally from Anxiety and Depression most of his life that he did not seek any help for as he felt he could manage it on his own. Much to the encouragement of his kids and his wife to seek help, he did not. He was such a hard-working, service-minded and kind man who always thought of others and rarely put himself first. This is the same uncle I mentioned in the below post from 2021:

https://www.cougarboard.com/board/message.html?id=25496795

He ultimately ended up taking his life last week due to this coupled with the stresses and pressures of getting older. His physical health deteriorated rapidly since 2020 and he was just never the same. Going from golfing, running, and hiking to having to use a walker and needing assistance in so many other areas of his life. Many believe his loss of independence pushed his normal Anxiety and Depression to greater levels than ever before.

I share this as a reminder for anyone who may be struggling with any sort of mental illness, to seek help. Please don't ignore it, don't pretend it is not there or that you can do it on your own. In the past 6 years or so I have had 2 cousins and now an Uncle take their lives. It has been a very sobering reminder to my extended family and my own, to be actively taking care of your mental health as well as your physical health.

Even if it is just talking about it here, many of us are here to listen and respond if you would like us to share our personal experiences and give encouragement. But seeing a medical professional and if needed getting medication to help are options out there.

Please don't let it go unchecked, The world is better with you in it!