That sounds like such a sweet relationship you to had, Sable.
![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
It's a shame time has to go on and change everything, but that's the way it happens with most childhood relationships. Nothing stays the same forever, unfortunately...
But if he's suffering with mental illness, perhaps you could offer your support. I always feel a kinship with those people in my life who I know have mental problems because I can understand them and vice versa.