Jarad Higgins, known professionally as Juice WRLD, passed away on December 8, 2019. He suffered a medical emergency, reportedly a seizure, at Chicago’s Midway International Airport. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that his death was caused by an accidental overdose of oxycodone and codeine. Juice WRLD was a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his contributions to the emo rap genre and hits like “Lucid Dreams” and “All Girls Are the Same.” His death was widely mourned in the music community and by fans around the world.
Jarad and I were always close. We liked to play pinball together. We had long conversations about his future and the world in general. Like any mother and son, we had our issues. Jarad came from a family where academics were the highest priority, so I wanted him to focus on school, but he was always more interested in music.
His teachers often told me that he was extremely gifted, but that he was always focused on his music. I would often find him in the studio in the afternoon, pursuing his dream. He was laser-focused. In the end, Jarad won the battle and I agreed to let him take a year off after high school to work on his own music and his vision as Juice WRLD.
When his career took off, I left my job in quality management to join his team. Jarad recorded music every day, in every city he found himself in. He amassed literally hundreds of songs. The lyrics and melodies all came from his beautiful mind.
Jarad and I often had frank discussions about his struggles with addiction, anxiety, and depression. I think he felt comfortable being honest with me because I never judged him. I recognized that what Jarad was dealing with was a disease and I knew he truly wanted to be free from the demons that tormented him. As a parent, I believed early on and supported Jarad having access to counseling. I encouraged him to always share his feelings.
I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love following the loss of my son. His loving spirit, which is communicated through his music, has touched so many people. I launched Live Free 999 so that perhaps his death could mean something for other mothers whose sons and daughters are dealing with the same kinds of issues that my son struggled with.
My message to the parents and children is simple. You do not have to suffer alone. You do not have to be ashamed of your mental health struggles. There is help. There is a way out.
On Mental Health Day 2020, I launched a new website, LiveFree999.org, in the hopes that it will be a resource for those who are struggling. If we can help even one mother and their son or daughter through our work here, Jarad’s death will have meaning and his positive, loving, creative spirit will endure.
