That being said, I’ve overcome an upbringing filled with abuse and shared my experience to help others. I helped my daughter overcome bullying and taught her how to use the experience as a catalyst to create change. We then watched her fight an invisible illness and once again, use that experience to help others, even while continuing to fight her own battle.
Over the last 4 years, here's what I’ve come to realize. We hear stories time and again from families who have lost a loved one to suicide/mental illness. What we don’t hear enough of are the stories from those who have fought, and are continuing to fight, alongside their loved ones who are still with us. I don’t have the answers, but I do have stories, experiences and suggestions of what has helped us. I find that people come to me frequently for advice on how to best support their child or loved one through bullying or mental health struggles. I want to help and believe I’m meant to do so. Caregivers are often forgotten in the midst of these battles, though we often struggle just as much as our loved ones. I want to be a voice offering support and hope to caregivers.
Regardless of where I find myself professionally, I am now committing myself to advocating even more fiercely for those who need it. The warriors, the caregivers and those who left us too soon. I've recently begun volunteering with The Shaka Franklin Foundation for Youth and will continue to look for additional organizations to donate my time and voice to. Look for a new emphasis with our HOPE program as we seek to reach not only teens, but young adults facing mental health struggles.
My dream? Speaking to audiences with an opportunity to inspire them to keep fighting whatever battle they're up against. Writing a book(s) to share my experiences and provide hope to the hurting. Creating a foundation that can one day provide scholarship opportunities to teens who refuse to let their mental health struggles stand in the way of pursuing their dreams. And maybe, just maybe, I'll have the opportunity to do all of this alongside the one who inspires me daily. My own Warrior.
