My friend, Renée Branum, said this is the most emotional painting she’s ever painted. You may see a boy standing beside a train; she sees her daughter’s only close childhood friend. This friend’s story ends in tragedy. Renée decided to paint Zoe’s friend, Sebastian, as a gift for his mother in memory of him.

He ended his life at a young age of 22 years when so much life should have been ahead of him. Why? We will never know all the answers to this question. Here’s what we do know. He was a son, a brother and a friend. He was a boy that loved trains. He felt different than the other kids. He was loved, but lost hope in life. In order to honor him, his parents have become advocates for suicide awareness. They don’t want any other parent to go through the loss of a child or loved one. They are sking the questions of what signs did they miss, and how could they have helped or prevented such hopelessness. They grieve their loss deeply.

This beautiful piece of art is rich with emotions—it reflects his imprint on life. He is not forgotten. He matters. He is loved. This art was a surprise gift for his mom—priceless.

Dialing 988 connects you directly to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.