Jared’s Story: Turning Grief into Purpose and Protection

Celebrating the Life of Jared Michael Coursen (03-27-03 – 10-21-24)

Forever 21-years old, Jared Michael Coursen faced battles with mental health that too many young people endure in silence. Despite his own struggles, Jared was deeply caring, often putting the needs of others before his own and finding ways to lift up everyone around him. Tragically, on October 21, 2024, he took his own life by ingesting sodium nitrite—a substance all too easy to obtain and alarmingly lethal. This heartbreaking reality is something no family should ever have to face.

Our beloved Jared was a beacon of light, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he touched. Jared was a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, an uncle, a loyal partner to Jesse, and a true friend to many. His spirit was vibrant, kind, and genuine, and his love of learning earned him an AICE Diploma. His passion for music brought joy to all who heard him play his trumpet. He was a creative soul, a lover of jazz, and someone who whistled when he was happy. Jared adored his Labrador retrievers, Stella and Hazel, and could spend hours exploring the woods or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

Jared was a man of his word, a friend to anyone in need, and an explorer of life. With a heart full of compassion, he was always there to lend a hand, staying true to himself in every way. Hunter green was his favorite color—a fitting choice for a soul as down-to-earth and as profound as he was.

Advocating for the S.2233 Youth Poisoning Prevention Act

In Jared’s memory, we encourage you to support the S.2233 Youth Poisoning Prevention Act, which is designed to prevent access to harmful substances like sodium nitrite. By supporting this act, we can work to protect vulnerable young people and create change in Jared’s name.

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S.2233 Support Template (Please Modify As Needed) - Click Here

Raising Awareness for Methylene Blue as an Antidote

In situations like Jared’s, methylene blue has the potential to save lives as an antidote to sodium nitrite poisoning. Together, we hope to raise awareness around its use in emergency care, possibly preventing future tragedies.

Help Us Keep Jared’s Memory Alive

Our goal with this page is not only financial support—although any donations will help cover Jared’s final expenses and contribute toward advocacy efforts. More than anything, we want to ensure Jared’s life, legacy, and story remain a catalyst for change. By sharing his story and supporting these efforts, you’re helping to create a safer, more compassionate world and ensuring that no other family has to endure this heartbreak.

THANK YOU for joining us in remembering Jared Michael Coursen—a young man with a bright spirit, a big heart, and a genuine love for others. Let’s carry his light forward, together.