Assembly Resolution No. 645

BY: M. of A. Griffin

COMMENDING the Ryan Patrick O'Shea Foundation for
its valuable work and ceaseless dedication to
Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary foundations it wishes to recognize for their
respected contributions to the success and progress of society and
publicly acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic
humanity among us all; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proud to pay just tribute and
commend the Ryan Patrick O'Shea Foundation for its valuable work and
ceaseless dedication to Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness;
and

WHEREAS, The Ryan Patrick O'Shea Foundation was formed in memory of
18 year-old Ryan Patrick O'Shea of Rockville Centre, New York, who died
by suicide; and

WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, the Ryan Patrick O'Shea
Foundation increases mental health awareness while decreasing
self-destructive behavior through support and education; it also aims to
provide support for those in crisis so they are armed with the proper
tools where suicide is no longer a viable option; and

WHEREAS, Born on August 11, 2000, Ryan Patrick O'Shea was the third
of four sons to John and Mary O'Shea; and

WHEREAS, Ryan Patrick O'Shea excelled both academically and
athletically; as a Senior, he was the Captain and a standout forward for
the South Side High School Basketball Team; he led the team in scoring
and rebounding and was named to the First Team All-County selection; and

WHEREAS, In the Spring of that same year, Ryan Patrick O'Shea joined
the track team, becoming a dominant force in the High Jump; he placed
8th in the State, and his highest jump was an amazing 6' 5"; after only
one season, he was named All-County and All-State; and

WHEREAS, A true asset to his community, Ryan Patrick O'Shea
participated in the Challenger League in his early years and later in
Hoops for All, working with children and teenagers with special needs;
he shared himself with the people he valued most and gave to those in
need without mention; and

WHEREAS, Following a traumatic brain injury in 2014, Ryan Patrick
O'Shea quietly and privately struggled; and

WHEREAS, He studied for one semester at Iona College before
transferring to a local college; on January 11, 2019, Ryan Patrick
O'Shea died by suicide; and

WHEREAS, A son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, Ryan
Patrick O'Shea is survived by his parents, John and Mary; and three
brothers, John, Liam and Griffin; and

WHEREAS, Ryan Patrick O'Shea brought so much joy to those around him
and, throughout his young life, made such a positive impact; his memory
will remain in the hearts of all those who had the honor of knowing him;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Ryan Patrick O'Shea Foundation for its valuable work and
ceaseless dedication to raising awareness for mental health and
decreasing self-destructive behavior throughout the communities of the
State and Nation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Ryan Patrick O'Shea Foundation, and the family of
Ryan Patrick O'Shea.