Dianna

It was a Thursday night. I was wearing navy blue pajamas with peaches on them when I heard someone knocking on my front door. It was a loud knock, the kind you feel in your gut that you can’t ignore. I immediately got up and opened the door and in front of me stood four police officers. I remember his voice as he asked, “Are you Dianna Wagoner?” and “Is Daniel Wagoner your husband?” As I replied yes, my eyes focused on their faces, and they held a look of somber respect that I will never forget. The very next sentence changed everything: “Ma’am I’m sorry to tell you your husband has passed away.”

I stood there for what felt like an hour staring at them. I only asked one question: “Are you absolutely sure it was him?” When the answer was yes, we’re sure, my brain and heart began to comprehend.

Somewhere in the middle of shock and comprehension, I learned that Daniel, my husband, the love of my life, had completed suicide.

That’s where my journey began. It’s a path I never knew or imagined I’d be on. This journey and Daniel’s Story have led me toward My Why. I hope that hearing it helps you and honors Daniel.

Nobody wants to suffer from mental illness, however, the reality is that 1 in 5 adults living in America DOES suffer from mental illness.

The Foundation of Hope builds a community that acknowledges the reality of mental illness AND honors those who have struggled, are struggling, and will struggle with mental illness by advocating, researching, and funding growth for the advancement in mental illness.

The Foundation of Hope has worked hard and continues to work to break the stigma of being ashamed of mental illness and because of that I can and will share again and again what we can do to help support those with mental illness.

1) We CAN be kind. Kindness is the foundation of hope.

2) We CAN say their names and use our voices.

3) We CAN hold on to hope. The Foundation of Hope supports the educational research and advancement of mental illness.

It is my honor to tell Daniel’s story, and I sincerely believe that we all can be Changemakers.

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