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Tom Carlson

by Tim Carlson from Nebraska


Tom Carlson was a kid who loved school and sports. He loved to play all sports, especially basketball. He played basketball against his brother, Matt, who is now 20. Tom would be 15 this year, but he passed away on December 3, 2003. Tom is my cousin.

Tom’s dad, David, is currently on the police force. He has started a new program called “The Yellow Ribbon.” Tom’s mom, Laurie, is a 1st grade teacher at St. Phillip Neri. David, who is my uncle, came up with this program that teaches kids and their parents the effects of suicide. Uncle David goes to schools, such as Westside, to talk to the student body about the tough subject of suicide. He came up with this program after his thirteen-year-old son, my cousin, committed suicide.

My cousin, Tom, taught me some great life lessons. One lesson is that suicide is not an option. Even if you think the whole world is on your shoulders and the only way to get rid of the problem is to commit suicide, you should think again. I know this because of the stress it has caused his parents. No matter how big your problem seems, I am positive you and your parents can work it out.

We will never forget the playful, energetic, and thoughtful young boy that once lived. Tom was a great kid and did everything his parents taught him to do. He was always respectful and courteous. Tom taught me the qualities of life. He taught me to never give up in life. After his death, my uncle said, “The dash between birth and death is not just a dash; it is what you do with the dash that really matters.”

Page created on 10/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

Last edited 10/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

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