DJ’s Story
I am writing to share my experience with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. As a mom of 3, it isn’t easy to tackle home and children. Having child with mental health issues has been a big struggle in my life. Not knowing what to do or who I can lean on. I found Big Brothers Big sister walking down the street, did a lot of research, and decided that I would try it out. I’m happy to have made that choice for all three children. This program has helped each of them grow and to find themselves. It gives them a voice and someone to trust. The matches we had were unbelievable.
My oldest son, who has been with his Big Brother for many years, has made a remarkable improvement not only in school but also in himself. We thank his Big Brother Phil for his hard work and dedication towards my son. Phil has helped boost his confidence and has encouraged DJ to many ideas for after high school.
Phil is and his family are huge support teams when times are hard for my family. They were a safe space for DJ to connect and release his emotion when needed. DJ struggled so much growing up with many losses, and Phil was the perfect match that made him see life differently. DJ has had many men walk away in his life, bonding and trusting men is an issue. It was great to see him connect with someone else and be able to explore the outdoors, enjoy baseball, and have guy talk.
Over the years we are getting to know more about Phil and realize the two of them are not that different, they kind of have the same experience. Phil and his family helped all of us through grieving the loss of my sister, the children’s aunt who passed away from Lupus at the age of 22. She was one of our biggest supporters and rock that held us together.
DJ is almost 16 years old, he found a voice to speak to me about his emotions; he knows he can cry, if needed and not be judged. Our relationship as mother and son has been a lot better than before. Phil, his Big Brother, still keeps in touch with us, though he has now moved to BC. We continue the relationship and communication as I personally think they both need each other as well. DJ needs him even when he’s too stubborn to admit it at times. I also feel my son wants to go above and beyond to make himself, myself and his Big Brother proud of his success.
Closing off this letter, having Big Brothers Big Sisters has been a huge impact in my child’s life. We want to give a big shout out to Phil, who volunteered his time, devotion, and part of his life to help a young man with struggles to achieve his goals. Thank you, Phil for all you do.
Sincerely,
Cece (Mom)
