Public Employee Press


Grieving family turns tragedy into hope
Jonathan's Angels

By DIANE S. WILLIAMS

Jonathan "Johnny" Acosta enjoyed life and relished dancing, playing poker, bodybuilding and laughter. Working at South Street Seaport as a City Parks Worker, Johnny found deep joy in helping others.

At age 16, Johnny was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. His father Ray said, "He struggled daily with these debilitating issues, but still made the best out of every day." Johnny unselfishly volunteered as an usher at Our Lady of Assumption Church in the Bronx, where he delighted in helping the elderly, being an "old soul himself," Ray said.

But on July 2, 2014, at age 26, Johnny Acosta tragically took his own life.

"We miss him every day," said Ray, a veteran employee of the Dept. of Parks and Recreation. His public service career began as a Local 983 Urban Parks Ranger 36 years ago. His son followed him as a CPW in DC 37 Local 1505. Ray is now a deputy chief of operations at Parks, a job he said Johnny urged him to reach for.

Because their son cared so much for others, Ray and Annie Acosta honor Johnny's memory and pay it forward as they cope with the tragedy of his suicide.

Paying it forward

Through Jonathan's Angels, a charity Annie Acosta started with the entire $10,000 union death benefit, the Acostas help youth with mental health issues at the Union Community Health Center on East 188th Street in the Bronx. The DC 37 Health & Security Plan provides the one-time benefit for members.

The first Christmas without Johnny, Annie donated toys and gifts to the center. "But we saw they really needed hats, coats, clothing, and boots," Ray explained, so they generously give these items too.

"We are grateful to our family and friends who provided us with much-needed support through talks, prayers, and a hundred other ways," Ray said and he thanked Local 1505 President Dilcy Benn for her constant love and support.

24-Hour Crisis Lifeline If you, or someone you know, need help coping with mental health issues, please seek counseling through the DC 37 Personal Services Unit at 212-815-1250. If you, or someone you know, threaten suicide or need to talk, call 911 or the Samaritans 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (212) 673-3000.

"A lot of sick people out there don't know how to deal with their mental illness. We still don't understand where it comes from," said Ray.

The family took Johnny to nearly a dozen doctors and believed they found the right fit and prescription. "Please don't ever give up on your child," Ray said. "Jonathan shows us that."

Sadly, Ray said, finding his illness unbearable, Johnny stopped taking his meds a week before his suicide.

This year the Acostas will participate in the New York City Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk on June 4, for an overnight 16- to 18-mile walk to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.org). Pledges fund research, advocacy, survivor support, education, and awareness programs to prevent suicide and assist those affected by suicide.

"We couldn't save our son," Ray said. "But we hope to save and support others who struggle with the pain and tragedy of suicide. I know our son Jonathan will be smiling down on us, giving his blessings."