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Ask Earl and Georgette Burnham
In September, Jordan Burnham, the teenage son of Earl and Georgette Burnham, tried to commit suicide by jumping from the family's ninth-floor apartment in King of Prussia. Jordan survived the fall, and today is trying to put his life back together again. His parents are taking the journey with him, remaining by his side throughout the ordeal and offering thanks that he did not die. Earl is the athletic director at Upper Merion High School, where Jordan was a popular and active student. Georgette is a first-grade teacher at Knapp School in Lansdale.
The Burnhams - along with Jordan - will answer your questions.
Read The Inquirer's story about Jordan, watch a video and listen to audio interviews of Jordan and his parents, and check a list of web links to find help.
Ask a Q&A that psychologist Guy Diamond had hosted earlier about signs, symptoms and treatment of adolescent depression.
Most Recent Questions & Answers
Youth Suicide Prevetion
QI coordinate the Bucks County Youth Suicide Prevention Task-force. Does Jordan or his parents)have any advice regarding ways adults can better identify youth who might be thinking about suicide and how we can best intervene to prevent this tradegy?
Marci Kelly, Doylestown, PA 01/21/08
AI feel there is no clear way to identify or diagnose depression. The biggest warning sign may be a lack of energy and appetite. The child may show a lack of emotion. The true test is for parents to use their gut instincts. No one knows the child better than his parents and they can usually identify a difference in their child's happiness.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
Media Relations
QTwo questions, really. First, what factors influenced your decision to tell, and in detail, your story, and what concerns and hopes did you have about doing so?
Second, this story was exquisitely written and had great impact, and I have no doubt that it is essentially true, but as both a writer and a frequent interview subject, I can't help but wonder what percent of it was completely accurate?
Many blessings on your family. I will never forget you.
Kathy Cronkite, Austin, TX 01/21/08
AWe decided to tell the story because of the many people involved in his recovery and the support they provided us as a family. God, the University of Pennsylvania Hospital our family and friends. Jordan had an interest in having it told and Mike Vitez's credentials were outstanding as a writer.
We felt it would help people understand depression and the response has been overwhelming to have people talk about their concerns on the subject.
The writer Mike Vitez spent almost 3 months on this story and was extremely accurate. He would at times triple check his notes with us asking different questions and interviewing doctors,students,police report,ambulance report,nurses, family and friends.
I only found one minor mistake the woman who I called the night of the accident to come later in the night was a former assistant Superintendent who's husband was my wife's former principal so I can see how that may confused him on titles but that was minor.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
God Bless
QMy prayers are with you and your son! Praise Jesus that he has survived and on his way to recovery. Stay strong in the Lord and with each other.
angel, indianapolis, IN 01/20/08
AWe are so thankful for each and every prayer. We also PRAISE JESUS for Jordan's miraculous recovery. We appreciate your support and encouragement.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
Mild depression
QI feel like someone close to me has "mild depression", if that's possible. One moment he can seem really happy and upbeat, and in the very next moment, he can get quiet and sort of withdrawn. He says he's fine, but things like lack of money, something being out of place, etc. will take him from really fun loving to really withdrawn. He abhors the idea of medication, and says he knows a therapist won't help. He's just moody overall and his emotions are almost like a roller coaster. He's never been extreme to the point of suicidal behavior, but I'm still very concerned. Any input would be appreciated. He's mid 20's, college educated, Af. American male. Thanks.
Anonymous, Burbs, PA 01/20/08
AIt is very difficult when you are worried about a loved one in your life. We have learned that we usually don't have answers, and so we pray first and please know that we will pray for you and your friend. We encourage you to share these concerns with Dr. Guy Diamond, who is a part of this forum, so that he may give you insight on what to do next.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
strength
Qi wanted to thank you and your son for sharing your story . It takes great courage to talk about depression in an open and honest way . After reading your article i spoke with my 11 yr old daughter about pressure and feelings and depression . i think your strength has made all the difference . i wanted to know how i can help your family ? blessings --Maria Reice
Maria, willow grove, PA 01/20/08
AThank you for your kindness. We are glad that the story helped to open up conversation with your daughter. Please keep us in your prayers.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
General Question
QJordan, I first off want to wish you the best in your recovery and I will be praying for you. When the praises go up, the blessings come down and with GOD fearing parents like yours, you are going to be just fine. They already claimed it for you.
I have a question about something that you said. It interested me. In the article you said,
"A lot of parents aren't racists, but they don't like interracial dating," said Jordan. "I found this out the hard way."
How does someone who doesn't like interracial dating not a racist? Maybe I am biased because I am biracial. Can you explain to me your thought behind your answer. I struggle alot with anger towards those people who don't acknowledge me because of who my dad was. I pray about it everyday but it is hard to let go.
This is a genuine question and does not come to you with any malice or anger, I just want to hear a different opinion other than mine.
Thank You and God Bless
Nicole
Nicole, Philadelphia, PA 01/20/08
AThis is a confusing situation for me as a black male to deal with and understand, but in my experience I have dealt with parents of teenage girls who do not accept interracial dating. I would not go as far as to say they are racist because they respect black people and other races as well. They simply were not comfortable with interracial dating. I am not saying it's right or even morally correct, but that is just how some people are. I just feel that not every person who is against interracial dating is a racist. It's a gray subject and I hope you understand my view or opinion.
Earl and Georgette Burnham
My Prayers
QI do not have a question for the Jordon family. Only that, my prayers are with you.
May god bless you all.
Rosa, Philadelphia, PA 01/19/08
AThank you so much for your prayers. They keep us uplifted everyday
Earl and Georgette Burnham