After losing two close mates to suicide within six months, I knew I had to do something. With over 30 years in the film industry, I turned to what I know best — storytelling — to help men share their struggles and their strength.

I’ve carried childhood trauma into adulthood, and for years it left me isolated, self-medicating, and shutting down when what I really needed was connection. Through hard work and good professional help, I bought the darkness into the light, leaving me equipped to deal with my issues and the world better, be a loving connected husband and Father. That’s why I’m driven to make sure other men don’t feel like they have to face it alone.

At Choose to Stay, we’re working to break the stigma that keeps men silent. Too often, men are emotionally stunted and not knowing what we’re feeling—or how to ask for help—feels incredibly shameful and stops us from reaching out. Through raw conversations and powerful short films, we show that strong men do talk about their darkest times. By sharing these stories, we build connection, brotherhood & hope.