UPSHIFT YOUR JOURNEY

I asked Chad to come and speak with my students after hearing them share their own stories day after day. Some had experienced major trauma, while others were just struggling with the changes they were facing as sophomore students. I knew some of Chad's story and wanted to offer my students an example from our community of someone who had lived similar trauma and struggles. Chad's message is not only uplifting, but also inspirational. He encourages his audience to pay attention and notice the needs of the people around them, but also to speak up if they know that something is going on with a friend.

Since having Chad speak with my students, a number of things have happened. One student reached out, feeling a strong connection to Chad's story, another began writing poetry to express internal feelings of struggle, and another student came to me, worried about the choices a friend was making after recognizing some of the signs of suicide that Chad had shared.

Chad's message is impactful and informative. I'm so thankful for the time Chad spent with my students that day and for the lasting impact he's had on them going forward. The world needs more people like Chad who are willing to share their story of struggle, but also their experience of survival. People of all ages benefit from being reminded that difficult experiences do not have to define who one is in the future.