FAIK

Chapter 1The Eternal Battle for the Mind: Why You Should Care

Whispers from the Static

It’s been an exhausting day. You’re on the couch unwinding, mindlessly scrolling Facebook, “liking” cat videos and vacation photos. A post stops you cold. It’s your best friend, Sarah. She’s sobbing, devastated.

“I can’t believe it,” Sarah chokes out, her face blotchy, voice raw. “My mom…she’s gone. She passed away last night. It was so sudden, we’re all in shock.”

Your stomach drops. Sarah’s mom? Gone? This can’t be.

Sarah takes a shuddering breath, then looks directly at the camera. “We’ve set up a GoFundMe to help with the funeral costs. It’s all happened so fast, and the expenses are. …Anything you can give would mean the world. We’re really struggling.”

You pull up her contact, about to call. But you reconsider, realizing Sarah is likely being pulled in several directions. You don’t want to add to the stress and frenzy, so you decide to send a quick text: “God, I can’t believe it. I’m so sorry.”

An hour later, your phone buzzes. It’s Sarah. Bracing yourself, you answer. “Hey, I saw your video. I’m so sorry about your mom.”

“What? My mom’s fine, I just had dinner with her. I was calling to see what you were talking about in your text. What are you sorry about? What video?”

You freeze. “The video…on Facebook. You were crying, saying she died and asking for donations.”

Silence. Then, “That doesn’t make any sense. Send me this video. Now.” With clumsy fingers, you send her the link ...