Author
Meet Tonya Jones
Tonya Jones was born and raised in Sterlington, Louisiana, and currently resides in Cedar Hill, Texas. She served as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy and has over 15 years of experience as a nurse, specializing in various areas of healthcare. Her career in nursing was fueled by an unwavering desire to help others, a passion that has defined much of her life.
However, it is her role as a mother that has had the most profound impact on her journey. The tragic loss of her son, DJ, transformed her in ways she never could have anticipated. As a medical professional, she spent years saving lives, yet she was unable to save the one that mattered most—her own child. The weight of that loss, coupled with the guilt and pain, became an unimaginable burden-one that she hopes no other parent will ever have to endure.
Through her book, Tonya seeks to honor DJ’s memory and bring awareness to the silent struggles of mental health. She hopes that by sharing her story, others will feel encouraged to speak up, seek help, and understand that mental health challenges should never be faced alone. Her journey of grief and healing has deepened her passion for suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, leading her to support other families navigating the complexities of loss and healing.
Tonya continues to channel her pain into purpose, advocating for mental health awareness and encouraging open conversations about the realities of grief. She carries DJ’s light with her in everything she does, ensuring that his love, his story, and his legacy live on. She lives with her family, cherishing every moment, and using her voice to bring hope and healing to others who need it most.