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On September 12, 2014, my husband took his own life, using a handgun. He was considerate enough not to use his every day carry weapon, which is really mine and registered to me. He used a gun that I didn't know he had, but again, he was considerate. He had all the registration papers set aside, to help me provide the police the needed paper trail. As I had never seen the gun, my prints were not on it.

Did I have a tragic boating accident with my guns? Hell no. I was wearing a gun when I went to the hospital to meet the ambulance, I had to go back at the door when I realized where I was. (We both have CPLs). As per usual, every time I left home to visit him, I wore my gun. I would secure it for times at the hospital and police station.

Bottom line: I am soooo sorry for this bereaved father. I understand his need to make something good come from his loss.

I also choose to make something good come out of my loss. After I sell my house and clean up the mess, I will begin designing a “Suicide Victim's Advocate” program. In our state, every county has a Victim's Rights Advocate-that person is the liaison between the victim and the prosecutor's office.

In my case, there is no one person that I can call and ask about evidence or the investigation. I have to bother the police when they are doing things way more important than answering my questions. I propose that suicides’ families are victims, and therefore should be provided with the same assistance as a crime victim. This person would liaise between the police and the survivors.

No one has dared asked me how I can still put on my gun every time I head out the door, and keep it close when at home. Well, sillies! The gun didn't do it, the owner did. If he hadn't a gun, he would have used another method. I choose to help myself by helping others, not taking away their freedoms. So, there it is. Again, guns do not kill people, people kill people. Oh, and a little off-topic, but pertinent. If you haven't already, please talk with your loved ones about the Gift of Life donation. My husband was able to help 2 people live, just with his organs. I haven't heard yet from the Eye bank, but I really hope his sparkling green eyes are showing the world to some sweet little kid!