Dave — #2
Recorded 9/20/21
9/20/2021
Fortunately, I had the honor of meeting Dave because I connected with Jeanie. He was also very kind and was willing to interview for the project.
Dave extended Jeanie’s story further by recounting Jake’s narrative from his side. He talked about being there for Jeanie, his love for Hana, providing Jake with all of the tools possible to succeed before he passed, and the resulting community that blossomed after Jake’s passing. All in all, it truly warmed my heart to hear how he stepped in and became a father figure/role model for Jake, and his sister, Alexa.
Once we finished our interviews, Dave, Jeanie, and I were met with an epic rainstorm. Rain downpoured around the lakehouse and we watched from inside. When it stopped, we had one of the brightest rainbows and a sunset to finish the night. I believe it was Jake saying hi.
June 2022
He stays beside Jeanie and devouts himself to the Check On Your Friends mission--all in the name of Jake. Dave attends all of the events, especially Rio-Bash, and helps drive the mission that he and Jeanie are both so passionate about. I had so much fun and received much joy from watching him and Jeanie in their elements at Rio-Bash.
Lucky for me, I had the opportunity to do a ride-along with Rick, where I rode behind Jake’s car and got to snap some photos.
Hearing Dave and Jeanie’s words about Rio-Bash, and then seeing it with my eyes, truly inspired me. Jake’s passing was a traumatic event that no one can ever recover from. Simply, we learn to grow from it and promote mental health awareness in his name.
