I have known Fr Howard since 1984. Fr Howard had known my father, Robert Haack and supported him through a tough time. My dad worked with Esperanza at Fr Howard's invitation. Then one of my brothers, Andrew Haack became very ill with schizophrenia and Fr Howard did his best to help Andy and our parents. Andy committed suicide in 1984. Fr Howard said the memorial Mass at St Leo's and met with our large family to listen and help us process our grief. I am the oldest of 9 children. I started seeing Fr Howard for individual therapy at the end of 1984 and worked with him for many years. I was a new single parent, getting started in my social work career and had a lot of trauma to process. Over time, Fr Howard married my brother and sister in law and baptized their 3 children, married my son and daughter in law and baptized my 2 grandchildren, saw numerous family members, including my son, to provide guidance. His door remained open to me always if I needed to check in. One of my most treasured memories is the Sign of Peace at my son's wedding. I was sitting with my son's father's family because no one attended from my family. Fr Howard held my arm for a few seconds while he greeted my son's family who are Jewish. My experience was that Jesus was holding my arm and giving me incredible support and love. Fr Howard supported me in working with folks with severe mental illness for over 35 years and to learn how to support several of my family members who have mental illness in a healthy way. My son has a great career as a high school teacher and DJ for weddings and other events. I am retiring this month at age 70 and I am at peace and whole. I feel Fr Howard's presence often and check in with him spiritually and emotionally to check the goodness of my decisions.