There have been trials we have gone through while serving our mission. I mostly don't share them, but focus on the positive instead. This most recent trial is one of the reasons I haven't updated my blog for a while. I'm not sure how to put into words how we feel about the loss of our sweet nephew, Jake.
Jake was a sweet, kind, soft-spoken young man. He has struggled for a long time with OCD, Anxiety, and Depression. On April 13th, we received news from home that he ended his life. These are times that it is so difficult to be so far away.
Throughout the next few days and weeks, the family has really pulled together. We have seen such sweet messages of love and support for Jake's parents, Marc and Victoria, as well as his sisters, Kenadee, Brinlee, and Bailee. Jake's family has tried to use this tragedy to help others who are going through the same disease. They set up a Go Fund Me scholarship. It is designed to help others who suffer from OCD, Anxiety, and Depression to be able to get help even if they are unable to afford it. I have added a link to the site Here. We are so grateful that they have exceeded their goal, but they continue to keep this available. The more money raised, the more people they can help.
Some fun memories of time spent with Jake:
The family held a celebration of life for him. Our sister in law, Molly, and daughter, Kaylea were so sweet to send us pictures and video clips throughout the entire service. It made it feel a little bit more like we were there. Jake was an artist and musician. The songs he wrote were really inspiring. He had such a gift.
Jake's favorite color was orange. This is a picture of all of the Collings brothers, excluding Steve. He wore an orange tie to support his family since we couldn't find orange socks in Uganda.
At the end of the celebration, they all released balloons, including these that spell Jake. Our three year old granddaughter couldn't be there, she lives in Colorado, but she released a balloon into the air too, and said she was sending it to Jake.
There have been several things written and shared that have really helped me understand the reality of what Jake was going through. This picture was posted by our brother, Kenney:
During this time, we have been so grateful for the love of family and friends. Over time the pain of losing him will soften, and hopefully be replaced with joy in his memory. It's just very difficult to imagine him not being there when we return home.
