Solomon Thomas Shares Story of Sister's Suicide and Mental Health Advocacy

The Loss of Ella Thomas

• 💔 On January 23rd, 2018, Ella Thomas tragically died by suicide, a devastating loss for her parents, Martha and Chris, and her brother, Solomon.
• 😔 Solomon describes the period following his sister's death as being surrounded by darkness, struggling to understand life and grappling with immense anger and confusion.

Navigating Grief and Seeking Help

• 😥 Solomon felt conflicted, experiencing intense grief while also being in the NFL and feeling pressure to appear happy.
• 🏥 His mother, Martha, recognizing his struggle, reached out to the 49ers, where General Manager John Lynch offered support and permission to seek help.
• 🗣️ Solomon began therapy to learn how to process his grief, a crucial step in his healing journey.

Mental Health Advocacy in the NFL

• 🌟 Solomon decided to use his platform to address the stigma surrounding mental health in the NFL, which was not a widely discussed topic at the time.
• 💬 He shared his vulnerability, encouraging others to understand that it's okay to not be okay and to seek help.
• 🙏 The response was overwhelming, with many people sharing their own stories of loss and some stating that Solomon's story helped them save their lives.

Carrying Grief as Love

• 💭 Solomon still experiences moments of missing Ella, especially during significant life events where he wishes he could share the happiness with her.
• 🏈 Now a Dallas Cowboy, he finds comfort in being back home in Coppell, where he and Ella shared many memories, and strives to include Ella's spirit in his life.
• ❤️ He reframes his grief not as an ending, but as a testament to his love for Ella, stating, "Your grief never leaves you, and it's something I carry with me every day. And that grief is love."