What if the signs of severe mental illness were hidden in plain sight? On this heart-wrenching episode of Broken Brains, producer Deny Caballero and I, Bruce Parkman, share the painful story of my son Mac's struggle with schizophrenia and depression—a battle that remained invisible until it was too late. We recount the tragic events of September 24, 2020, when Mac ended his life at Pulpit Rock, and reflect on the heartbreaking missed cues that could have alerted us to his suffering. Our conversation underscores the urgent need to recognize and address mental health issues among those we hold dear.

Navigating the aftermath of Mac's death was a journey through shock, disbelief, and an overwhelming search for answers. This episode takes you through the grueling process of planning his funeral, dealing with suspicions of foul play, and the emotional toll on our family. The raw and candid anecdotes reveal how our family struggled with grief, substance abuse, and the relentless pursuit of justice. It's a glimpse into the devastating impact of such a loss on family dynamics and the painful intersection of investigation and grief.

Driven by a need to understand Mac's condition, I turned to organizations like StopCT.org and the Concussion Legacy Foundation. Interactions with Dr. Ann McKee, a leading CTE researcher, unveiled the connections between brain injuries from contact sports and severe mental health issues. This newfound knowledge fueled my determination to raise awareness, leading to the creation of a book and a foundation dedicated to protecting future generations. Join us as we highlight the critical need for reform in youth sports and underscore the long-term consequences of contact sports on developing brains.

Produced by Security Halt Media