Christmas Blues?

The memory of lost loved ones during the holidays (especially Christmas) can be a source of depression when everyone else seems to be having a good time. Instead of falling into a funct this year do something unique to commemorate his/her time on earth. Focus on his life, not his death. Have family members/friends share memories of interesting or funny episodes from his life. Laugh together, cry together. Then, turn a corner and invest yourself in the lives of those still living - especially the young ones. Use your experience and concern to impact and make a difference in their lives. Forget about yourself for awhile. You will discover a joy you never knew. The true "reason for the season" may just flood your being and give you purpose for moving forward.

A Special Friend

On March 2, 2016 I received a text from a retired firefighter who had worked at Chelan County Fire District # 1 with my son Mark. He knew that I had written, Matt's Last Call:Surviving Our Protectors and wanted to meet with me since he was writing a book on Alzheimer's. We met over coffee several times. He shared his story with me about his beautiful wife who had Dementia/Alzheimer. As he shared his story I immediately knew writing a book was the answer to so many questions and thoughts about this tragic disease. I learned so much that I didn't know or even understand. People make snide remarks about those who have dementia or Alzheimer's that are rude and demeaning. NO one wants to live this life. Just listening to Cary I learned so much and could hardly wait until our next meeting and what more could I learn. He shared the chapters with me as they were completed. A ghostwriter is putting together the book with information he provided her. He was interested in the publishing aspect which is where I come into the picture. I gave him a couple of books on agents and publishing companies. I didn't see him for awhile as I had trainings, speaking events and book signings. However, we were texting. Unfortunately, he became ill and informed me that he was in hospice and it wouldn't be long.  "I am ok with it." was his response when he contacted me. The next day I learned he had died. A good Christian man whose goal was to help others is now with our Lord and Savior. His ghost writer will complete the book and I will help in anyway I can.

Matt's 20th High School Reunion

This post is a little different from my usual posts. My husband I were honored to be invited to Matt's 20th High School Reunion. It was held last night at Pybus Market in Wenatchee, WA. I was asked to bring photos of Matthew as they were having a table of those who have died since high school. We attended Matt's 10 year HS reunion which for us was difficult because it was just a year since he had died. His friend's were at our side the whole evening making sure we were ok. It was special. Last night we were greeted by 2 girls who identified themselves. I remembered both of them. One of them was in 1st grade with Matt. A beautiful girl. I reminded her of the time she told her mother that she was going to marry Matthew and wanted to have him to dinner. She laughed and we reflected on the years. I saw one of his best friends. He has grown up so much and was quite chatty. Of course, as a teen he was always at our house, but I hadn't seen him for many years. Another young man I had as a student back when he was in Middle School. We didn't have a lot of time to chat but wish we did. He was always a favorite of mine. We missed some of Matt's friends as they had gotten off work late and had to go home, shower and change. The friend who invited us was unable to come due to his grandpa's death. However, he is one I can see often since he still lives in Wenatchee. Many kind words were spoken about Matthew and how he is missed. I am so thankful that these young adults still remember Matthew and the other deceased classmates. We were the only parents attending who had children no longer living. God is always faithful.

Working Together With God's Help

I recently met Mary at one of my book signings. A former Law Enforcement officer has seen so much tragedy. We met a week or so ago sharing our stories, the Law Enforcement officers who have died in the Line Of Duty or suicide. We both have the same passion! Line Of Duty Death/Suicides continue to escalate. After two hours of coffee and conversation at Starbucks we left with a renewed passion to continue our work with a new partnership. The subject of suicide is hard for people to talk about but it simply can't be ignored. Bottom line: it is essential that we educate our first responders. We need to STOP ignoring the pain, PTSD, haunted scenes and nightmares, etc. Although suicide is a tough topic to talk about, I have been able to get beyond the word suicide and not only write about it but also speak to many different organizations, including law enforcement, first responders military, and everyday citizens including churches and service clubs. You see, I am the survivor of my son, who took his life due to a failed relationship. No way will I allow the STIGMA to tarnish my son's name, a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, and a Chelan County Sheriff Deputy. It is important to let the public understand and learn the signs of suicide and where to get help. God has been by my side through this horrible tragedy and with His help I stand today. Teaming with Mary who knows what officers deal with on a daily basis and the pressures they face we hope to make a difference. I look forward to working with Mary and learning as much as we can from each other. I have written, "Matt's Last Call: Surviving Our Protectors," to hopefully prevent the unmentionable(suicide) and to help survivors cope with the aftermath of this tragedy. Get your copy today. My website is: http://mattcutshort.tateauthor.com or contact me directly. Mary and I, both Christians, are hoping/praying that God uses us to save lives. Please don't wait until it is too late. GET HELP NOW

The Price They Pay

I have just read the book, "The Price They Pay," by Karen Solomon and Jeffrey M. McGill. The book is incredible. People look at Law Enforcement officers as mean, out to get them, killers, etc. Let me tell you that is NOT who Law Enforcement officers are. They are here to Serve and Protect us from evil. Yes they give tickets, arrest those driving under the influence, murderers, thieves, hit and run drivers but did they cause you to do those crimes? NO! Our Law Enforcement officers see and experience more heinous crimes and murders than we can fathom. Consider these crime scenes: A dead child, an abused child, a burn victim, a shooting of one of their own. After awhile some, not all start seeing these incidents in their sleep, causing them to lose sleep and affect their thinking. They may have been shot or stabbed themselves. The book, "The Price They Pay," has stories of officers who now have PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). At some point if not treated, the officer would probably lose his/her job and pay. And the possibility always exists that they may be kicked to the curb by their own Law Enforcement Agency, left to fend for themselves with no income. Some are able to seek help, others get worse and may commit suicide. What can remedy these situations? If you see someone whose personality or work ethic has changed ask, "Hey what's going on? Are you ok?" Stand by them and encourage them to get help. Contact SAFE CALL NOW,206-459-3020, an organization and hotline designed to help law enforcement and first responders in need. There are also many people who love you - SO, don't give up.