H.R. No. 962 is a resolution recognizing Martha Thomas, cofounder and chief education officer of The Defensive Line, a nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide prevention. The resolution highlights Mrs. Thomas's personal motivation for establishing the organization following the tragic suicide of her daughter, Ella, in 2018. Since its founding in 2021, The Defensive Line has focused on addressing the epidemic of youth suicide, particularly among young people of color, by transforming conversations around mental health. Mrs. Thomas, who has over 30 years of experience in education, now dedicates her efforts full-time to the organization, conducting workshops and partnerships with various educational institutions to equip teachers and leaders with the tools to address mental health crises.

The resolution expresses the Texas House of Representatives' honor and appreciation for Martha Thomas and The Defensive Line's commitment to preventing youth suicide. It acknowledges the organization's significant contributions to raising awareness and providing actionable strategies to save lives. The resolution concludes with a commitment to prepare an official copy for Mrs. Thomas as a token of high regard from the Texas House.