Episode 83 : Jeanne & Gideon Bernstein

This is a story about parents that faced an unknown situation with a tragic

outcome. They lead us through the troubles they experience and how they manage

to deal with everything.

We meet Gideon and Jeanne, a couple full of positive energy and hope, who

Through their story, they introduce us to their firstborn son Blaze. They named him after

Blaise Pascal, which seems like an irony to them now, and as a young boy he was

capable, talented, loving and kind. His creativity was the sign of an artist that was

committed and brilliant.

At some point in his late teens, Jeanne asked Blaze about his sexuality. He did not want to talk about it, as he was coming into his own as a young gay man. They were very open minded and respected his boundaries. They believe that the biggest problem was with community and constant bullying that Blaze experienced. They were part of the community that did not have any experience with diversity, especially in public schools. Due to this they were trying to find solutions in sending him to a school that was more open to him, where he could focus on his artistic and academic skills. Still, he managed to deal with all the problems and had a promising life in front of him.

Unfortunately in 2018, at the age of just 20, home from college for the holidays, Blaze went missing. After more than a week of searching, his body was found less than a mile from home. He was murdered: a victim of a hate crime. 

After a time of grief and thinking about what they could have done differently,

they realized that they need to focus on the future. They wish that they were more

proactive at the moment about his situation. Due to that, they are now working hard

toward achieving that community embrace differences, as that is the only way of

moving forward.

Jeanne believes that it is enough if you manage to change at least one

person. She explains that our influence and experience can help someone in their

hard times, and if it helps only one person it is enough. It will change their life and

from that moment can have a rippling effect on the whole community and world.

For more information, please visit: blazebernstein.org and join the Facebook Group: #BlazeItForward

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