Efrain Marrero, 19

Efrain was found in his parents’ bedroom dead from a self–inflicted gunshot wound to the head. At age 19, Efrain had the highest respect for his parents and was very kind at heart. He adored his baby brother, Ethyn and younger sister, Erika. He was raised in a solidly Christian home, and had embraced his faith. A hard working young man, he was attending a local community college, studying hard—he had a plan for his life, a direction.

Efrain was preparing to play football at the community college he was attending, but didn’t want to play his normal position of lineman. He wanted a more prestigious position of linebacker. Efrain began using steroids, under the impression that it would make him bigger, stronger, faster, and earn him the title and recognition he so much desired. Efrain, unaware of the serious side effects of steroids, began to experience severe paranoia and deep depression, but did the right thing and turned to his parents for help.

Approximately three weeks before his death, Efrain told them that he was using steroids and was afraid that something was terribly wrong. He said that in one of his classes he felt as if people were staring at him and laughing, and also said, “I don’t care for much anymore.”

His parents consulted the family physician, who assured them the substances would pass out of his system soon—no further action was required. However, advising him to quit using steroids “cold turkey” was a bad idea—the doctor failed to provide them with an appropriate course of action. Three weeks later, Efrain killed himself, and left no doubt in the family’s minds that the deep depression associated with the use and sudden withdrawal of steroids led to Efrain’s death.