Going through old photo albums is just one way Donna Thomas connects with her son, James. He died by suicide in 2018, and after the tragedy, Donna knew she had to do something to help other kids who were silently struggling.

“I don’t want any other parent or family to have to go through this because going through the day-to-day thing, there is so much guilt,” said Thomas, founder of James’ Warriors.

Once she realized no parent or child should ever feel alone, she founded James' Warriors. The nonprofit educates high schoolers about the stigma surrounding suicide, including a conversation that begins with mental health.

“I think we give a raw and emotional detailed presentation that lets them feel like it’s OK to have a diagnosis of mental illness, and at the end of the day, you can still be happy, even with a diagnosis like that,” Thomas said.

Donna's presentation in a health class at Ballston Spa High School resonated with one student in particular, who understands that it's OK to not be OK.

“Ever since the presentation, I try to, you know, talk to everyone, check in on everyone, because you know a good hello or a good conversation can really change someone’s entire day,” said student Cameron Hinchcliff.

It's small actions like these that Donna hopes can build an army of James' warriors.