I survived another week

This week was undeniably rough, but then again, it feels like every week throws a curveball my way. This time around, I actually had the nerve to do two school presentations, which was both exciting and terrifying all at once. It was my very first adventure into public speaking, and let me tell you, I was beyond nervous. Speaking to a large crowd is no easy task, especially when it’s a bunch of lively 8th graders! I managed to get through my first presentation, but oh, the second one was a complete train wreck—I bombed it in ways that would make a comedic opera seem like a masterpiece. I just couldn’t hold it together like I had hoped. I shared Jai’s story with all my heart, but afterward, I was a complete emotional disaster. I found myself so overwhelmed I couldn’t quite finish saying all that was on my mind. However, the response from the students was nothing short of incredible! A few students even sought me out afterward to share their own situations and experiences, allowing me to delve deeper into Jai's story. I collected a treasure trove of hugs, too! Who knew that being so emotional would let those kids witness something so raw, like the real pain of a mother who lost her son to fentanyl poisoning? If by sharing Jai’s story, I can save even one life and show that he was a real person, just like everyone else, then I truly believe I am making a difference and honoring Jai’s memory in the process.