Many years ago (a decade in just 3 weeks) I had a very, very teeny baby Thomas. He cried a lot, I struggled with depression, I had a group of friends both real life and internet who helped me through that. That group of friends became one at some point and included the very amazing quietish  but also included Katie Allison Granju.  Katie literally wrote the book on Attachment Parenting and become a  confidante and friend in a time of my life I struggled.  I was mean sometimes and harsh and judgemental and Katie was one of the people who reminded me to back off on that.

We grew apart as life happens...because it happens.  I suspect our fledgling friendship was more important to me than it was to her.  She helped shape who I became as a parent and why I choose some of the things I do.  She was a friend.  

Her 19 year old son died two days ago.  I had met Henry several times.  He was sweet and lovely.  And now he isn't and I want to cry.  I want to cry for my friend and for the world who doesn't have him.  I want to rage at the people who think those with addictions deserve to be nearly beaten to death.  I was to punch the people who have made him a political rallying point just two days ago.  He was a real fucking human being.  And no one deserves that.  No one.

So I am boosting the signal.  Katie's post here about a scholarship fund is here however the family could also use donations and her employer is helping with that.  Here is a post about that.

I don't normally pat myself on the back but want to take a moment to say I almost always give every time there is a signal boosting because I have decided to put people before money...even if it might be a scam.  I don't think I have ever really asked.  But I knew him.  If you want to boost the signal I would appreciate it...