After a while, I didn't even realize that I was in mourning. As I searched for my brother, I didn't know what I was looking for; I was just endlessly searching, restless, and dying inside.

On August 6, 1987, author Ida Hildebrand's brother, Richard Vernon Hildebrand, committed suicide. Ritchie Boy is the vivid description of her personal experience during this heartbreaking ordeal.

The motivation behind Ritchie Boy is Hildebrand's hope that those struggling with life's pressures will be moved to make positive changes in their lives, or to help others seek a path to a happier life. By embracing pain, letting it wash over you, and feeling it in every cell of your being, you will be ready to let it go. Everyone knows that there is tremendous pain when a loved one is lost-but there is also great joy in having known and shared your life with that special person.