On his Facebook page, Jeff Fuller describes himself as: “Father to three great boys . . . husband to a wonderful woman . . . retired police sergeant and dog lover!!”
I’ve never met Jeff Fuller, but we have many mutual friends in the outdoor industry, so I feel like I know him. I’m familiar with his SportingDog Adventures TV show and YouTube channel. I’ve also heard great things about his kennel, Soggy Acres Retrievers.
I’m a father to two boys, ages 14 and 16, who love the outdoors just like Jeff’s kids, so when a friend of mine shared this Facebook post from Jeff Fuller, I immediately felt sick to my stomach.
Jeff Fuller Facebook post, April 9:
This past week Thursday, my 17-year-old son Cole Fuller took his life. He had suffered from depression and mental illness for several years. We worked tirelessly to help him and find help for him. Mental illness has a stigma attached to it. Because of this and the limited available options for help, many young people aren't getting access to the care they need. We were fortunate that hundreds of people tried to help my son. I am heartbroken, blame myself and will forever have a hole in my soul that will not be filled until I see him again in heaven. I am not writing to seek condolences. Many in the hunting and retriever community have asked how they can help. I look at our industry as family. My son Cole represented our industry and many outdoor brands, and he set a great example for all on our TV show. It would honor the memory of my son if you could make a donation in his name to help these kids that are suffering so much: https://www.mhawisconsin.org/make-a-donation.aspx (Please make donation in honor of Cole Fuller.)
As the days passed, I saw other FB posts from this grieving father.
Jeff Fuller, April 11 FB post, as it relates to the tribute video below:
Please watch. Please share. Please talk to your friends, family and most importantly children.
I will miss you forever, Cole. I will have a hole in my soul to Ill meet you in heaven. I only wish I could have found you help. I will work till my last day to help kids just like you. I’m proud of you, you would have done such great things and you will be missed by so many.
We are making a difference. In lieu of flowers please donate to https://www.mhawisconsin.org/make-a-donation.aspx. Please make your donation in honor of Cole Fuller. We have raised almost $10,000 to help our troubled youth. Please help me raise money and awareness so we can MAKE PEOPLE LISTEN.
In the description for this tribute video, Jeff Fuller wrote: “Goodbye my sweet, beautiful boy. My you rest easy now in the loving arms of God. I am sorry I failed to find you help. I will spend a lifetime trying to help other struggling kids in your honor. I cannot wait to see you in heaven. I love you. Dad.”
