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I remember when Andy died. I remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, what I was wearing... everything. I was in 7th grade, I wasn't the most popular kid but I was pretty well liked. My friend, Andy was the class clown. I loved him for that. When I think back, he reminds me alot of Cartman from South Park. Although Andy had a lot of friends he was still very insecure. He hated the way he looked and told me all the time that if he were athletic he could probably get a girlfriend. I always shrugged my shoulders and tried not to think about it. I mean I was in the 7th grade, my only concerns were, who was dating who, what I was doing that weekend, or what outfit I was going to wear the next day. I also wasn't to familiar with the 'warning' signs for depression.

I remember it was Wednesday, April 17th, 1999. We all came into school thinking that it was just another day. I, however, was feeling slightly odd. Like I was coming down with something or something was wrong. When I walked into homeroom I saw my friend Sarah crying. She too was one of Andy's close friends and she over heard one of the teachers talking in the hall. Our homeroom teacher, Mrs. Holderfeild, hushed the classroom and began. "Everyone, I have an important announcement to make." She hung her head down, trying not to cry and said, "Andy had an accident last night and is in the hospital. They aren't sure if he will make it yet but if you need some time to be alone you are free to leave the classroom." Immediately Sarah and I stood up an walked out together. We stood out in hall for 20 minutes hugging each other and crying. Our counselor came up and had us go back to his office to talk. Everyone knew that Andy and I were the best of friends, even the teachers. The counselor sat us down but neither of us talked, we could only cry. After about 30 minutes we were asked to go to the art room to make cards for him, an activity that was supposed to cheer us up. Then the principle came into the art room. "Excuse me, I have some news. Andy passed away about an hour ago. There was no accident, Andy took his own life last night."
I ran out of the room and went into the office to call my mom. Through tears and deep breaths I told what happened and begged her to come get me. An hour later I was in the car on my way home. I felt so empty, like maybe I could have done something or maybe if it would have been a few years later I would have noticed the signs. I don't blame myself, I can't, but there isn't one day that goes by that I don't think about Andy. My lovable, hug-able Andy. I miss you dear friend. You left us too soon.

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