After losing Brody and Kennedy to suicide, I decided to take action and speak up. I decided to gear my Community Service Initiative, BeYOUtifully YOU, towards mental health and suicide prevention. One life lost to suicide is one too many! We live in a world that is afraid to talk about suicide. Why is that? We are worried that if we talk about suicide, then it will plant seeds in others’ heads. That is a myth and not the case; talking about mental health and suicide prevention shows others that it’s okay to speak up if you or someone you know is struggling. 

Suicide is the leading cause of violent death. Someone in your life might be having suicidal ideations, and you might not realize it. It is my mission to educate others on what the signs of mental health illness and suicidal ideation look like. Educating others can save lives! 

I am incredibly grateful for the training I have received because it taught me how to recognize the warning signs of suicidal thoughts. When someone in my life began experiencing those struggles, I knew it was important to speak up. Because of that training, I was able to help keep her safe and ensure she received the support and help she needed. 

I could have sat down and let the grief consume me, but instead, I decided to make a difference and honor Brody and Kennedy. One way I plan to take action is by becoming a dance therapist. Not only is dance good for physical health, but it also has amazing benefits for one’s mental health. Dance has always been my therapy. After losing my friends, I found myself in the dance room more often. I knew that when my words failed me, dance would not. Dance is my outlet, my passion, and my life. 

Brody and Kennedy lost their lives at 16. Let’s speak up, take action, and not let anyone else be “Forever 16.”