San Diego Humane Society and SPCA

On May 30th John Denison tragically took his own life. The tragedy of his death and the effects it has left on our community are immeasurable. John had the kindest heart and a limitless love for animals. He dreamed of one day becoming a veterinarian. He was constantly seen walking his two dogs around the University City neighborhood with a big happy smile. John was adored by his classmates and left a lasting impact on all he encountered. The impact of mental illness on our children, friends, parents, sisters and brothers is felt by many across our nation and the heartbreaking effects of mental illness is one of our worlds more prevalent issues. Coping with such a big loss is a process, but understand he is in a place of peace, a place only consisting of the compassionate and gentle energy he brought to his family and the world. To honor John we ask you to donate to a cause that brought him joy.  We ask you to live each day acknowledging the silent struggle of many and do whatever you can no matter how small to show the people in your life you will support them through the inevitable pain life brings . We will all miss John dearly and although he is physically gone the legacy of his life and the love he shared for animals will motivate us all to live as he did; with kindness, empathy and character. Feel free to leave your favorite memories of John in the comments! If you are ever feeling hopeless please reach out, more people than you know understand your pain and care for you beyond words.  We must learn to lean on one another and do what we can to destigmatize mental illness.