July 21, 1976 -
September 6, 1995

"Jay in Shades of Gray" is intended to be used as a supplement to an existing mental health program dealing with depression and/or suicide and emphasizes the need for communication. If a person is feeling depressed and suicidal it is vital for them to seek help and talk with someone who understands and can provide appropriate direction. Presentation of the program in a larger context should be made by a trained professional, knowledgeable in depression and suicide counseling.

Steve (Jay's dad) authored "Jay" during the first three to six months following Jay's suicide. After about a year, he shared the work with Sherry (Jay's mom) who suggested the words be combined with Jay's artwork to form a book which was edited by Sherry and Natalie (Jay's sister). The book was shown to their niece Suzanne, a drama instructor at Atascadero High School (CA), who developed the play and ultimately the video.

The program was initially presented to 570 9th grade health education students at Atascadero High School in Atascadero, CA as a component of their mental health curriculum. Participants, including teachers, counselors, health care professionals and suicide prevention personnel, joined in discussions on depression, its warning signs and suicide prevention.

"Jay in Shades of Gray" has become an integral part of the family healing process and it is hoped that many will benefit from this powerful work.