Jen Robinson’s Post

View profile for Jen Robinson, graphic

Health Tech Marketing Leader

On May 24th my eldest brother James Gulbrandsen died by suicide. Jimmy, as he was known to his family and close friends, was the hardest worker I’ve ever known, with an incredible capacity to dream big and do all he could to hit those big targets he’d set for himself. He loved many things, but especially Rush, BYU Football, his three daughters, and our Grandmother Bacon. With permission I’ve included my brother Erik Gulbrandsen’s words in two screenshots. They are an especially profound perspective as both a grieving brother and a compassionate physician. Jimmy would tell anyone who’d listen that his brother Erik was the best doctor (Jimmy’s right — Erik is the best). Why do I post this on LinkedIn of all places? As I process my own grief, I feel compelled to remind you that you are needed in this world. As my brother Erik says, if you feel like you need help, please call or text 988. If someone you love struggles with these feelings, please help them get this care. In a world of such a beautiful diversity of thought, I believe two things to be absolutely true for all people: you are of great worth simply because you exist, and we are here as humans to help each other through this experience. 

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Tywana Williams, PhD

Chief Executive Officer | Extensive Business Growth, Innovation

3mo

Jen, I found your heart felt words on LinkedIn from a mutual connection. Death by suicide is a public health crisis and too often, it gets swept under the rug. Brave loved ones (like you) who share their pain and grief, are often the silent heroes on the frontline. From your loss, there will be someone like your brother, looking at the impact from a loved ones perspective. I want to offer a prayer for comfort and resilience for you and family. If you need to talk, please don’t hesitate to send me a note, I have a list of resources for families who have lost a loved one, gathered when I volunteered at the AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention). 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

Cathy Narvaez

Bereavement Minister

3mo

I'm so sorry for all of you. I've been on both sides of the struggle and it is so very hard. Secrets lead to many suicides as we convince ourselves that no one cares or can possibly understand what we are going through when we can't understand it ourselves. The love and support of our family and friends does help, but not as it should. It's as if mental illness is a huge monster that has enveloped our lives and we have lost control. We need to regain control. Not many can handle that responsibility. Whether I know you or not, if I can help, I will be there for you. Too many have ended their lives. Education can help. Prayers for all those who died by suicide and for the families and friends they've left behind.

I am sorry for your loss, as someone, who had to deal with a suicide of a loved one—it is hard to get your head around why they chose to leave. The one thing that helped me the most? Counseling. I cannot say how important that is...if you haven't I would suggest consider talking to someone. I am coming up on 8 years (June 4). I truly wish I could have done more, but if someone is intent on leaving? There is little we can do. May God's love be with you and your family at this terrible time.

Wow. It's crazy reading through these comments, and seeing how many people have lost someone to suicide. During a good chunk of my life, I felt like I didn't want to live anymore. Then, my mom took her life. I think one of the hardest parts about suicidal ideation is feeling isolated and alone, and that no one could possibly understand. Reading this post affirms what I felt after my mom died. There, are many of us who think about it, but even more of us who grieve for someone who has taken their life. For anyone who needs it: you're not alone and we love you.

Gene Stanger

CAD Design / Drafting / Manager / Supervisor / Veteran / Author

3mo

Thanks so much for sharing Jen. I truly understand and am sorry for your loss. The devastating loss of both my younger and older brothers to suicide has profoundly impacted my life and shaped me in ways I never imagined. My perspective on mental health and suicide prevention has been forever altered. Through this tragic experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the importance of open communication, seeking help when needed, and supporting loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health. I have also learned the invaluable lesson of self-care and prioritizing my own well-being in order to prevent burnout and emotional exhaustion. This profound loss has motivated me to advocate for mental health awareness and de-stigmatization in my personal and professional life, as I strive to honor the memories of my beloved brothers through promoting positive change in society. They were two great funny human beings but never give us any reason to suspect this illness. Keep fighting for their memory and you are right we are all in this together. Take care of yourself.

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Anne Howard

Strategic Accounts Manager @ Intuit | Driving Key Account Growth. Serious Inquiries only, No solicitations for unpaid/ non salaried opportunities. Thank You

3mo

The mental load of not knowing where you are going to sleep or what to eat can become a major factor in something like this. Every day I’m struggling trying to keep going - there isn’t a phone number or therapy treatment that can fix the choice between living on the street vs just letting it all go. The system we have for this suicide crisis is not equipped to extend the type of care and compassion we need. I would take a Kroger job right now if I thought they’d call me back. Just to buy me some time and hope - I’m sorry for your loss, I kissed my mother to suicide along with a best friend Christopher Monfort- trying to process it was crushing and I took the time to grieve and now I can’t get back on my feet. If there’s anyone that knows of even entry level or basic work I’m in Georgia trying to hang on. I keep interviewing but it’s going to be hard to do if I’m on the street and I won’t survive in this Georgia heat.

Mark Prueter

VP / Director of Business Development and Sales I Performance Driven - Solution Focused

3mo

My heart breaks for you and your family Jen. Thank you for shaing and advocating that others needing help seek it. My prayer for you and your family. May "the Lord Bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace" Numbers 6:24-26

AnneMoss Rogers

Mental Health Speaker & Trainer | TEDx | Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

3mo

May 24 of THIS year? Long ago I started posting on this platform about mental health and suicide. Crickets for two years. That has changed and you have people here to support you in your advocacy and/or your grief journey. There are many suicide loss survivors and attempt survivors here on LI. Lean on us because we leaned on someone else when we needed it. I'm so sorry.

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