I have known and loved Palmer and his family since he was seven days old. Like many Islanders, I feel immense grief and pain in response to his suicide. It was a horrible mistake. As the saying goes, suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Every cell in my body wishes he were still alive.

Palmer will live on in our hearts and in the profound impact he has had on us. We can learn, grow and heal, as individuals and as a community, through the deep feelings and lessons that come to us from Palmer’s life and from his death.

Life is precious. Each of us is unique and precious. This and every moment are precious.

Let’s be really real with each other. Let’s check in with our friends about how they really are. Let’s ask for help when we need it. Let’s express our love frequently.

Palmer’s legacy will include how he helped us all value life and connect with each other with more authenticity and kindness. May we all, and especially the already amazing Vashon teens, continue to find and share the compassion and love that is within the grief we feel.

— Baruch Brad Roter