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| | Our MissionTo build an informed and compassionate community that works together to address mental health challenges, promote emotional well-being, and support those affected so no one has to struggle alone.… in Kathy’s name. |
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| | A Note From Our FounderDr. Michelle Boodoo |
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The semicolon has become a powerful symbol of hope and strength in suicide prevention and mental health awareness. In writing, it’s used when a sentence could have ended but didn’t and the author chose to keep going. In life, it carries that same meaning: a reminder that even when things feel unbearable, your story isn’t over. There are still more chapters to write, and there is still hope within you. You might see the semicolon in many forms, tattooed on skin, worn as jewelry, or shared as art, but no matter how it appears, it represents resilience, connection, and the courage to keep moving forward.
The picture you see is of my first and only tattoo, KP; Kathy’s initials and a semicolon. For me, it’s my way of saying that Kathy’s story continues, through our hands, our hearts, and the work we do to help others In Her Name. |
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| | | Talking About Suicide Can Save Lives
Talking about suicide can save lives. It’s okay to ask the difficult questions. Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will not put the idea in their head; instead, it gives them a safe space to share what they’re going through.
When we listen without judgment and show compassion, we remind others that they are not alone and that help is available. |
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| | | Don’t be Ashamed or Afraid to Ask for Help
So many people struggle in silence because they fear judgment or feel ashamed of their pain... especially males. The truth is that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of strength and courage.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to your family, your friends, or someone you trust. You don’t have to carry the weight alone. And remember, support is always available: call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s free, confidential, and open 24/7 to listen, support, and guide you through your hardest moments.
You are not alone in this journey. Reaching out is the first step toward healing, and your life is worth that step. |
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| | Suicide is a Leading Cause of Death
According to the WHO, suicide is the third leading cause of death among people ages 15–29. My Kathy is one of those heartbreaking numbers. I often wonder if I had known the warning signs, or if she had felt safe enough to share what was on her mind, maybe we could have saved her. There are so many “ifs.” I can’t turn back time or change what happened to Kathy and our family, but I share this in the hope that you will learn the warning signs and create a safe, supportive space for your loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health. |
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| | | Call or Text 988
You don’t have to go through your mental health struggles alone. If you’re struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or any mental health challenge, please know that support is out there. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free, confidential, and available 24/7. It is brave to ask for help. Reaching out takes courage, and it shows strength, not weakness. Your mental health matters. |
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September was Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Every year, in the month of September, we come together to break the silence, end the stigma, and spread hope. Suicide is preventable, and by learning the warning signs, checking in on our loved ones, and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can save lives. |
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From the very first day we lost Kathy, I began documenting my grief, and I revisited those writings, reflecting on my relationship with loss. Out of that reflection, I’ve created a book of poems about grief, grieving, and my personal journey through it all. The book is in its final stages of preparation for publication, and I’ll share more details as the launch date approaches. |
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| | Poem Snippet: Never Coming Home
Never Coming Home is a poem about the phone call that altered my entire being. Here I share two verses from the poem with you; it’s real, it’s raw, it’s my reality. My girl is never coming home. |
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Poem Snippet: One More Talk
The poem titled “One More Talk” reflects a conversation I wished for countless times... and will continue to wish for until the day I see my girl again. Here is one of the verses from that poem. |
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Poem Snippet: Do You Hear Me?
The poem “Do You Hear Me?” came to life after wondering, over and over... and over again, if Kathy hears me when I speak to her. I still speak to her all the time.. I don’t know if she hears me, but with all my heart, I hope she does. |
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Poem Snippet: The Grief That Never Leaves
The poem “The Grief That Never Leaves” is about how loss reshapes us, the pain that lingers, and the love that lives on. Our grief becomes a part of who we are, and so does the honor of carrying the memory of our loved ones forward... every day. |
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Each year, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) organizes walks at college campuses, parks, and other community spaces across the country. These events raise awareness about the mental health crisis, provide resources for those in need, and create a supportive community for families and friends who have lost a loved one to suicide.
For us, these walks are deeply personal... they give us the chance to honor Kathy’s memory and help break the stigma surrounding mental illness. To find a walk near you, visit the AFSP website and sign up. In Her Name will be at the Broward, Palm Beach and Miami walks in South Florida, stop by if you can and say hello. ❤️
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| | Disclaimer: In Her Name & Online Community is for informational purposes. It is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace consultation with your physician or mental health professional.
If you or someone you know is in distress, CALL or TEXT 988 or go to https://988lifeline.org for help. The counselors will also help family members. |
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