My name is Heather, and while I am originally from NJ, I have lived in Delaware for 13 years. I live in Dover with my husband and our 3 children.

After the death of my first husband 11 years ago, I became very active in suicide prevention but always had an interest in helping those of us who are “left behind.” Having been there, I certainly understand where there is a need for resources.
Though my formal training is in veterinary medicine, I am certified in grief recovery as well as a Certified Life Coach. I am also the author of The Widow Next Door: Learning to Live Again as a Young Widow and Single Mom After Losing My Husband to Suicide. My book was my first step toward helping others on a similar journey.

I am a board member because I want to make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering the unbearable loss of a loved one to suicide.

I believe we can make positive changes in the resources available to those in need.

Hello, I am Amber, your Vice Chair for DJ’s Alliance. My pronouns are she/her. I currently reside in Sussex County, Delaware. I am honored to be a part of a great organization. I believe in our founder, Jennifer’s, goals and missions. I have seen firsthand how suicide has impacted her, her children, her family, and our community. I have lost many to addiction but not suicide, feeling that sudden loss and not having answers is so exhausting. Knowing that there are so many resources lacking, I am excited for our future and what we can do.

I am a first-generation college graduate. I have a dual master’s degree in human service with a focus on trauma and resilience. I have overcome trauma and understand how important the right support during traumatic experiences is. Understanding trauma and how it can impact us gives me the ability to help our community. Often, we have support in the beginning but, as time fades, so does that support. My goal is for DJ’s Alliance to continue to provide that support to victims and their families.

I have had past volunteer experience with LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. I have seen firsthand their battles with suicide and lack of resources. I currently work as a case manager with individuals who are faced with a lifelong infection and must learn to navigate life differently.

I am a board member because no one should have to endure this loss alone or without support.

I BELIEVE: We must be the change we want to see.

Jay-Xavier Johnson (He/Him) is a Sussex County, Delaware native currently living with his fiancée and their beautiful little human. He graduated from Milford High School and has more than 17 years of medical experience under his belt. He currently works as a clinical care coordinator for Plume, a gender-affirming telehealth company. He has turned his experiences as a Black/Indigenous transman into an advocacy platform, having mentored LGBTQIA+ youth and families now for many years. He knows first-hand that the LGBTQIA+ community has one of the highest suicide rates and brings to the Board his own personal, lived experiences of past suicide attempts. Jay-Xavier also says he is passionate about DJ’s Alliance because: “I have had chosen family affected by the lack of resources and support while trying to navigate their loved ones’ absence.”

As an active advocate in the local LGBTQIA+/BIPOC communities, he has volunteered with CAMP Rehoboth, The Village of Delaware, AIDS Delaware and the GSA Club (Gay-Straight Alliance) at several schools, starting at his alma matter. He recently completed his bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences at Wilmington University.

Jay-Xavier says: “I believe everyone should be able to see a reflection of themselves in others. My purpose in life in this lifetime is to not only reach individuals outside our community, but teaching others in our community to appreciate each others’ differences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the BRAVEST thing that we’ll ever do.”