My Uncle Todd Handel

His Story, My Passion

My uncle, Todd Handel, is my dad's brother. He was born on June 7th, 1969 and passed away on December 21st, 1990. He was just 21 years old when he passed away. My uncle Todd died by suicide. The effects of his suicide are still felt today.

I never got to meet my uncle Todd. Some say that I resemble his looks. This creates mixed emotions inside of me. I'm sad that I will never be able to meet this man. I'm sad that my uncle Todd only got to live 21 years of his life. I'm sad for my family that we don't get to experience his personality and presence in our lives. On the other hand, I'm glad his memory and legacy can live on. 

The passing of my uncle Todd has sparked my interest in helping others that may be struggling with similar issues my uncle Todd struggled with. Whether it's raising funds, raising awareness, or spreading a positive attitude to as many as I can, I will always carry my uncle Todd with me as I try to change the stigma on mental health and suicide. The reason I'm so passionate about AFSP and other organizations that continue to help people in need is because of my uncle Todd. My middle name is Todd, named after him. I want to make him proud.  

People are struggling all around us and I think there's always more room for awareness to be spread when it comes to suicide prevention. We can be the voice that helps someone turn their life around. Let's be there for someone. We are all going through battles inside and spreading positivity can be the thing someone needs in their life. I try to live by the motto "Be Kind. Be Positive. Be Yourself". Let's spread this message the best we can, because there is absolutely no downside of being kind, positive, and/or yourself. 

“Empathy is simply listening, holding space, withholding judgment, emotionally connecting, and communicating that incredibly healing message of you’re not alone.” - Brene Brown

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.