Happy, short lived, misguided, missed, never forgotten
Timmy was precocious from birth. He was very smart and capable and had advance computer skills at an early age. He taught himself Spanish and spoke it fluently. He was outgoing, social, adventurous and caring. Timmy loved gymnastics, cars, making music and was a natural leader. He often tried out new hair and beard styles and drove with his music blaring.
Timmy had firm beliefs, was inclusive, empathetic and loved nice clothes. He had a genuine smile and was well liked by everyone. He graduated from high school with presidential honors and went on to UNC Charlotte, to pursue a double major in Physiology and Spanish. He wanted to travel, become a Spanish teacher and eventually have children. Though he was dismissed from college for a time, he had started taking new medications that seemed to be working and he registered to return to school. He also found love and seemed happy.
When Timmy was using drugs he became careless, out of control, and was in denial about his illness. He became sneaky, and his personality changed. His parents were concerned about what might happen to him when he was in an addictive mental state.
His mom, Lisa, wishes there were less stigma associated with substance use disorder and more available resources. She said: “I believe it can happen to anyone, it is important to raise awareness. I hope no one else walks in my shoes.” She also feels she is more on alert about where her younger son goes and what he does. Lisa misses Timmy’s presence, his smile, his helpfulness and their shopping trips and coffee dates together.
Lisa says: “I am broken, but grief does not define me. I understand more about addiction, and I do not see life the same. Today is given, tomorrow is not; memories last a lifetime; love lasts forever.”
Timmy’s mom, Lisa Smith, provided the information for this narrative.
February 1, 1994-December 15, 2016
Age 22–Lived with addiction 5-6 years
