A year and a half ago one of my best friends took his own life. It broke my heart and I haven’t been the same since. It was so important that I wrote a monologue for my show that night and dedicated it to him.

That day was a turning point for me. I stopped taking things for granted and started making each day count.

The next week I started volunteering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention as an advocate, writer, and speaker. The AFSP gave me a network of suicide-loss survivors who had been through similar experiences. Plus, they are constantly raising awareness about suicide prevention. They are an incredible organization.

I’ve never been one to sit quietly by when something needs to be done. Some may say I’m a little too pushy or a little too outspoken, but I can’t help myself. When a protest happens in Chicago I’m on the front lines, when women march downtown I’ll be there in support, and I will continue working with the AFSP in honor of my friend Jacob and other suicide victims around the world.

When I first got involved with AFSP I quietly mentioned to the director of the organization that I would be happy to do a show for them if we could work something out. I wasn’t sure if we could find a date that would work but I wanted to find a way to give back.

Well, flash-forward eighteen months and it’s finally happening!

On Thursday, February 8th I will be presenting my full show at The Greenhouse Theater in Lincoln Park. All proceeds will go directly to the AFSP.

Doors will open at 7pm for pizza and a cash bar, with the show following at 8 pm. Tickets are $20.

For more information, please call (312) 890-2377 or visit their website to buy tickets.

Please come and let me entertain you in support of a wonderful organization. And if you or any one you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call the Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

I’m glad to be back writing Thursday Thoughts again. I have many exciting projects planned in 2018 and can’t wait to share them with you.