When a Phone Call From a Stranger Saved My Life

Editor’s note: The following includes details of a suicide attempt which might be triggering for some. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741-741.

I distinctly remember that day, 10 years ago or so. I was in one of the darkest depressions I had ever been in. I was so tired of hurting. My life had been left in shambles after I received a mental illness diagnosis.

In desperation, I got my mother’s pistol. I carried it around crying and praying. I cocked the hammer. Right at that moment my phone rang. I answered the phone and put the gun down.

It was a lady I had only met one time.

She was the leader of a Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance meeting. I had been to one meeting and left my number. She asked in a serious tone if I was OK. She said I suddenly came to her mind and she had a terrible feeling. She immediately called me. She asked again if I was OK. I said,”I am now.” She told me I could always call her if I needed her.

If that lady had not listened to her instincts, I would probably not be here today. The kindness of a stranger saved my life. A stranger who followed her heart. I truly believe God sees us in our darkest moments. 

I want her to know she was my angel that day. I could have given up everything. My life could have ended in tragedy. Instead, I am here today still fighting. I can’t imagine it was coincidence. Thank you kind stranger. I owe you my life.

If you or someone you know needs help, see our suicide prevention resources.

If you need support right now, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

To find a Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance group in your area, click here.

The Mighty is asking its readers the following: Describe the moment a stranger — or someone you don’t know very well — showed you or a loved one incredible love. If you’d like to participate, please send a blog post to community@themighty.com. Please include a photo for the piece, a photo of yourself and 1-2 sentence bio. Check out our Submit a Story page for more about our submission guidelines.