Amy,
First of all, let me say thank you. Thank you for using your life to help others through their difficulties. Thank you for dedicating your life's work to what you were passionate about. Most of all, thank you for creating The Semicolon Project.
The Semicolon Project has helped so many people know they are not alone, and it has helped so many overcome the challenges they face each and every day. You first started this project to help others suffering from depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts know they are not alone in this battle, and that their story isn't over yet.
My battle with depression and self-harm started at 13 years old after I endured several deaths of those close to me and experienced a sexual assault. The battle raged on in the dark for several years. Several years later I found myself in an abusive relationship and the monsters in my head began to take over once more. At 20 years old I came across The Semicolon Project, and began reading the stories of thousands of other people who had been experiencing the same difficulties I had been for almost a decade. I didn't know any of them on a personal level, but I instantly knew I wasn't alone in feeling lost, depressed, and like I didn't want to be here anymore. Suddenly, it felt like I could breathe a little easier, and finally move forward one step at a time. Reading other's stories and believing in this movement helped empower me to get better. A little over a year ago I joined your movement by permanently inking a semicolon on my hip over the majority of my scars.
Today, April 3rd, 2017 marks 3 years clean for me from cutting. That's thanks to my family, my God, and you, Amy. You made such a difference in the lives of millions of people, but for me it's much more than that. You saved my life.
You saved my life by letting me know I wasn't alone in this battle. You saved my life by showing me the stories of thousands of other people. You saved my life by providing resources to me. You saved my life by empowering me to speak up about my struggles and ask for help. Most of all, you saved my life by reminding me that I am worth more than what the monsters in my head tell me I am, I have a purpose, and my story isn't over yet.
A few days ago I heard of your passing. I was heart broken. I never met you, but I knew much of your story and your struggles.
Let me say I'm so sorry. I'm sorry you felt alone. I'm sorry you felt like you had no other choice but to take your own life. Please know we don't hate you for this. We understand. I'm sorry I couldn't help you through your darkest days, and I'm sorry you finally reached your breaking point and no one was there to stop you.
My story isn't over yet, and I'm so sorry that yours is. I hate that I live in a world that you're no longer part of.
Please know you are loved, you are appreciated, and Amy, you will never be forgotten.
Much love,
A Survivor
