Alan.....you are missed!
At Luna, we consider our players family and are saddened that we have lost one of our own. Alan Carter Villaruz-Curley, a giving soul and talented musician, lost his battle with depression in October of 2010 by taking his own life.
His father, Jeff Curley, has formed “Pick With Austin”, a nonprofit charity corporation that operates in Alan’s memory
One of the leading causes of death amongst teenagers is suicide. The Centers for Disease control report that it is the third leading cause of death, behind accidents and homicide, of people aged 15 to 24. Even more disturbing is the fact that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death for children between the ages of 10 and 14.
The purpose and mission of “Pick With Austin” is to help educate and elevate community awareness about a growing epidemic of youth depression and suicide. They also provide donated guitars to kids and teens in hospitals, in youth groups and ministries, and/or to those who have been identified in some way of being potentially “at risk” for depression.”
There is, unfortunately, a real stigma surrounding mental health issues and the only way to get past it is to educate ourselves, to have open and frank conversations and to reach out to those who are suffering. You can learn about teen depression on Pick With Austin’s mission page. If you are inspired by their calling to help prevent the tragedy of teen suicide you can donate here.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please make note of this number: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Calls are routed to the nearest crisis center in the caller’s area.
And remember: “Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.” — T.H. Thompson and John Watson
Teen suicide, any suicide actually, is a terrible thing. These are people who have their whole life ahead of them. More often than not, they’re people just like you and me. And they’re usually some of the nicest people you’ll meet. I appreciate the people who help bring awareness to these kinds of things.
I can’t begin to express my thankfulness to all for everything that is being accomplished. Teen/adult suicide is a terrible tragedy that puts a heavy burden on the hearts of loved ones. To see efforts to educate and prevent this tragedy from occurring is amazing; it shows the world we still have humanity for each other. I lost my best friend at the age of 18 and I still till this day question what I could have done to help, to see the signs, to do something. The education and services that are provided by both Luna Guitars and the Pick with Austin Charity are great recourses for help and hope. Thank you all from a mother, a friend, and a lover of life and music.