Suella Tecco

On July 27, 2014, my 25 year old son Stephen died from an overdose. But Stephen is not defined by the disease he fought. He had one of the most beautiful souls who wanted to only beat this horrible affliction and go on to write and help others who were fighting the same battle. He loved his family, friends and had the ability to make all who met him love him. He was a writer and a poet. He was a most gentle man-child. He did not hide his skeletons; he spoke of his journey openly with the hope to inspire others to beat it. He wanted to lead others out of the hell of addiction. As his brother said at his service, Stephen, "You showed grace where others showed contempt. You have inspired people to address their addictions and not be afraid of them. You spoke life into the darkest of places and brought hope to the wayward." And this he did. And this is why I believe God called him home. To be an angel to others who are dealing with this mean illness. We love you Stephen, and miss your beautiful smile and big hugs that were always there, even in your darkest moments.