Marty (Martin) Hertel (August 26, 1972 — January 7, 2026) entered my life in 2002 and became an unforgettable part of a pivotal season—through work, friendship, faith, and laughter. He was generous, funny, and steady when I needed it most, even officiating my wedding and leaving a legacy strong enough that we later named our first son after him. Rest in love, Marty.
USA vs Philippines suicide rate comparison, transgender suicide data, and why religion, poverty, and “affirmation” don’t explain the gap. Real numbers, no slogans.
I’ve got gay friends, a gay cousin, and even transgender children. My stance hasn’t changed: I support gay marriage and personal freedom, but I don’t subscribe to the gay lifestyle. Disagreement isn’t hate—and hate itself is unproductive.
Puberty blockers are not a culture-war toy, they’re a medical decision with real tradeoffs. Here are 17 hard questions I think every parent should ask before anything irreversible happens.
