When I finished What Made Maddy Run, I was speechless. I didn’t know what to say. It took me two months to read a book that normally would take me a few days and now it was over. There were no more chapters or pages left. Just the cover of the book staring back at me.
With the sensitive topic of suicide brought up, I knew I couldn’t read it in one sitting. I spaced out reading 20 pages a night every few days. I didn’t want to rush the book. I almost wanted it to last forever. But books can’t last forever.
There are so many thoughts and feelings rushing through me. I felt the pain of Madison Holleran’s family and friends. I felt the pain of Madison. I felt everything Madison went through.
Maybe it was because I’ve contemplated suicide that I could relate so much to the story. Or maybe it was simply the fact that Madison's story was raw and honest.
I don’t think I could read it again. It was a lot to process. It still is. But I want everyone to read What Made Maddy Run.
It’s more than just Madison’s story of what led up to her suicide. It’s a way to start to understand depression and the battles I’ve faced. It’s a way for people that knew Maddy to find closure.
To be honest, the initial reason I wanted to read it was because it was written by my neighbor's cousin. In fact, my whole family wanted to read it when I said I ordered it. After the first page, I knew the real reason I wanted to read it was because it was about depression.
It’s a story I will never forget. A book I will hold onto forever.
Thank you, Kate Fagan, for writing a story about suicide and opening the dialogue to the taboo subject. I too am grateful the Holleran family was willing to share their daughter's story in such a public manner.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please call the hotline. Call 1-800-273-8255 or Text 741741.