Thank you all for taking the time to view my story; it truly means a lot. I am a retired military veteran who was also pursuing a master's degree while working. During this period, I felt stressed, overwhelmed, and began to spiral into dark places. It was also when I learned that several friends had passed away in quick succession. Writing became my form of self-therapy, helping me cope with everything. 2025 was overwhelmingly complex, and I honestly don't know where I would be without the support of my family, friends, and coworkers—including Cate, Ari, Tati, Josh, Alli, Ruby, the Smash Bandits, and, almost the most important, Kumo’s B$%^&$’s—the Monday evening gamers who brought me back to the gaming table.


