The Legacy of Chris Lives On

After a battle with depression, our beautiful and talented son, Christopher Brown, lost his life to suicide on June 9, 2018. A gifted musician, Christopher was a proud member of Haverford High School’s ensemble, and competition & marching bands. Music was his great love, second only to his family and friends, who adored and cherished him. As Christopher valiantly fought his depression, we came to realize that those who struggle with their mental health often suffer in silence. After Christopher lost his fight, we were stuck by the vast numbers of families and individuals that endure difficulties with mental health, like our Christopher. Our loss has been profound, but the memories of Christopher and his wonderful accomplishments sustain us and have inspired us to encourage discussion within our community about mental health and eliminate the silence on these issues. We know that music was the way that Christopher best expressed himself. When we remember Christopher, we can’t help but hear the music he played, chords he strummed, and notes he loved.

Research shows that music, both listening and playing, has a positive impact on a variety of mental health factors, including improving self-esteem, decreasing anxiety, and improving mood. Christopher’s most grounded, fulfilled, self-valuing moments were when he was playing his instrument. We want your children to be able to benefit from the same esteem-boosting effects that Christopher often experienced. For that reason we will reuse, recycle, and re-home any instruments you and your budding musician is either looking for...or no longer needs. To celebrate Chris’ life, we hope to instill a love and dedication of music within our warm community. We hope that music feeds your soul and inspires confidence and leaves a perpetual gift of music for generations to come. Chris always reached out to kids who needed him. Music gave him so much happiness , and he would be so happy to provide you with an instrument that you can call your own. Keep this instrument or pass it along. No strings attached!