It’s a phone call Brooke Dudgeon and her daughters will never forget. She was going about with her day, driving in the car, when she received the call letting her know that her 16-year-old son, Brady, had taken his own life. The shock…the sorrow…the hurt…the anger…the questions…all of that and more flooded into her life and the lives of her family and friends. That was in January of 2018.

Today, Brooke is helping others realize they do not have to take their own lives. Regardless of the situation, there is a reason to keep living.

Brooke recently visited TV-44 with her daughters, Lori and Kenzie Bassett, and son’s best friend, Julia Meyer. The four of them shared several key principles in the importance of choosing life over death.

1. You matter. Your life matters. You have a purpose.
2. If you’re struggling with thoughts of suicide, talk to someone. Your thoughts are temporary, but the pain of losing you lasts forever. Be bold. Tell someone you are struggling.
3. If you’re not struggling with suicide, be an open ear to others who are. Individuals need to have a safe place to talk.
4. Find others who will lift you up when you are feeling down. Allen East offers a suicide awareness group. If there isn’t something in your own school, consider starting a support organization.

Proclaim the “You Matter” Message through a yard sign, T-shirt, or one of the many-colored bracelets. Each bracelet has a different meaning. Watch our studio interview with Brooke and her family and friend to learn more about these meanings!