Clark High School Senior Had A 'Heart Of Gold'

CLARK, NJ — A close friend of Maureen Elizabeth Suszko, 17, of Clark is sharing her heartfelt and moving memories of the Arthur L. Johnson High School senior who died on Jan. 8.

Linda Agnone Piesco wants Maureen to be remembered for much more than her recent death. And is hoping by sharing her words that others will not take teen depression lightly.

"My daughters best friend took her own life two days ago. As kids have been in and out of my house offering support and a shoulder to cry on this one sweet boy said something to me that has been stuck in my thoughts.

With tears in his eyes he said, “The sad thing is Maureen will be known as the kid that killed herself.”

In honor of Maureen I would like to say Maureen was a daughter, sister, granddaughter and a friend. She would fold laundry with me and we would talk about everything. She never left my house without thanking me for having her over.

One time my other daughter was in an outfit teen crisis. Maureen showed up with a bag of her clothes to share with her. She was mature enough to remind my kids how good they have it when they complained about me. She was able to admit when she was wrong.

She recently got into the college of her choice. She had a bright future set for herself with goals and dreams. I wish someone was there to stop her when she chose to end her life.

Sadly, we can not go back and change things. We can learn from it. Never take depression lightly. If your child needs mental health take them to their appointments, listen to them, never dismiss a cry for help as a way of getting attention.

Bottom line is to me Maureen will never be known as the girl that killed herself. She will be known as Maureen, the young woman with a heart of gold."

For help:

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources and best practices for professionals.

Here are some warning signs that may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, according to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings

Visit suicidepreventionlifeling.org or call 1-800-273-8255 for more information.

• See Related: Students Mourn Death Of Clark High School Senior

(Image via Shutterstock)

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