Paul Parr, educational fund for his son, Gabriel

I am Paul's mother, and I witnessed the struggles he faced in managing his grief after losing his first and only child seven years ago. In 2020, he was diagnosed with PTSD following a mental break, and the challenges of the COVID isolation and fear only exacerbated his depression. This break led to legal charges, serving as a wake-up call for him to seek serious help. He moved in with his father and me, underwent psychological and psychiatric treatment, and began rebuilding his life.

During this time, he met a girlfriend, secured a job, and experienced the joy of becoming a father again when his son, Gabriel, was born prematurely at 22 weeks, weighing only 2 lbs 6 oz with underdeveloped lungs. Despite spending the first six months in the NICU, Gabriel not only survived but thrived, growing into a strong and healthy 20-month-old. Paul's dedication to Gabriel was unwavering, providing him with a second chance at fatherhood.

Regarding Paul's legal issues, the incident resulting in charges involved a high-speed maneuver that injured the officer. Despite having no memory of the event, Paul expressed remorse, paid restitution, and faced numerous charges. After nearly three years of court appearances and waiting, the case finally reached plea bargaining on Monday. Unfortunately, the process became confusing and constantly changing, adding two more charges shortly before sentencing which to him eliminated his hopes of parole within a reasonable time to get back to Gabriel.

This sudden turn of events, combined with the weight of perceived failures and the impending sentencing, proved overwhelming for Paul. Sadly, he took his own life in the early hours of the morning. Adding to the family's burden, Paul's father, who shares guardianship of Gabriel with me, is battling terminal cancer.

As the years pass and Gabriel grows, our hope is to provide him with every opportunity to thrive and honor his father's memory by becoming a good, well-educated man. Our family is committed to supporting Gabriel, and we appreciate your love and assistance in helping us fulfill this commitment. God bless you with peace.