In Episode 28 of The Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Leann Hull, the founder of Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation. Leann shares her heart-wrenching story of her son, Andy, who tragically died by suicide at the age of 16. She discusses the series of events leading to his death, including a breakup, academic struggles, online bullying, and the side effects of acne medication that made it difficult for Andy to cope with these challenges.

Leann now dedicates her life to suicide prevention, speaking at various events, advocating for suicide prevention education in schools, and offering support to those struggling with mental health. She also gives out "You Matter" bracelets to spread awareness, which can be ordered through her foundation's website.

Leann is also the author of the book How to Live When You Want to Die, available on Amazon. In this episode, she shares how she's turning her grief into a mission to help others and prevent further tragedies like the one she experienced.

Join us as Leann shares her journey, the work she's doing through Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation, and how we can all contribute to preventing suicide and supporting mental health.

You can find more information about Leann's mission and order bracelets here: You Matter Bracelets Donate to the foundation here: Donate to Andy Hull's Sunshine Foundation Purchase Leann's book on Amazon: How to Live When You Want to Die

In this episode of The Lost Child Podcast, Camille and I dive into our experience completing our first triathlon and how exercise has played a crucial role in our grief journey. After the loss of our daughter, Sunni, we knew that moving our bodies could help with the emotional weight we were carrying, but we didn't fully understand how transformative it would be.

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We discuss the physical and emotional challenges of training for and finishing a triathlon, and how this experience has helped us cope with grief, find moments of peace, and rediscover joy. We also explore the science behind why exercise can be such an important tool in managing grief and improving mental health.

Join us as we share our journey, the lessons we've learned, and how moving our bodies has become an essential part of our healing process. If you're struggling with grief or looking for ways to cope, we hope this episode offers insight, hope, and inspiration.

References:

Coping with adversity: physical activity as a moderator in adaption to bereavement

The impact of exercise on depression: how moving makes your brain and body feel better

The impact of physical fitness on resilience to modern life stress and the mediating role of general self-efficacy

Can Physical Activity Support Grief Outcomes in Individuals Who Have Been Bereaved? A Systematic Review

In this tender episode, we speak with Sammy's loving mom, who shares beautiful memories of her son.

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Despite living with a rare gene mutation that caused untreatable epilepsy, Sammy's sweet nature and love for cuddles brought joy to his family, especially his adoring sisters. After a tragic accident left him unable to recover, Sammy's heart became a miracle for another through organ donation. His mom reflects on the profound grief that follows the loss of a child, and how she has found ways to cope with the pain while keeping Sammy's memory alive. This heartfelt story offers comfort and hope to others walking through the difficult journey of child loss.

Join Camille as she gives a heartfelt tour of our Sunni Studio, where every item holds deep personal meaning. From cherished memories to significant symbols, each piece tells a part of our journey with grief. We created this space not only to remember our daughter Sunni but also to help others understand grief, find ways to overcome it, and support those who are grieving.

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In this special episode of The Lost Child Podcast, released on the anniversary of Sunni's passing, Camille and I (Blake) sit down to reflect on the past year. We share an honest and heartfelt overview of how we've been coping, discussing both the profound lows and the unexpected blessings that have emerged in the wake of our daughter's death. Join us as we navigate through the ups and downs, recounting the hard times and the moments of light that have given us strength. This episode is a tribute to Sunni's memory and a testament to the resilience and love that continue to guide us.

The pictures referenced in this podcast can be found in the video podcast right here.

In this profound episode of the Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Pam and Dana, the resilient parents of Ryan, who tragically took his own life and they share how this loss has impacted their marriage.

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Pam and Dana courageously share their personal journey of coping with the immense grief and the impact it had on their marriage. They discuss the challenges they faced as a couple, the importance of not being ashamed of their son's death, and the resources they found helpful for parents, teachers, and teens struggling with mental health issues. Their story is a testament to the strength of love, support, and the commitment to bringing awareness to teen suicide and mental health. Join us for an intimate conversation that sheds light on the complexities of grief and the power of resilience.

In Episode 22 of The Lost Child Podcast, we hear the heart-wrenching story of Keisher, who lost her son EJ to the common cold during a family trip to California in 2003.

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As Keisher's family planned their Thanksgiving vacation, they never imagined the tragedy that would unfold. EJ, always full of life and love, began showing symptoms of a cold passed on by his sister. Despite their concerns, the family decided to proceed with their trip, hoping for joyful memories.

Upon arriving in California, EJ continued to be his playful self, even enjoying one of his favorite activities: vacuuming. But that night, everything changed. EJ woke up multiple times, expressing his love for his mother and asking to see a doctor. In the early morning hours, EJ's condition worsened, and despite rushing him to the hospital, he tragically passed away.

Now, over 20 years later, Keisher reflects on the profound impact of EJ's loss, sharing the highs and lows she's experienced since that fateful day. Join us as Keisher bravely recounts her journey of grief, resilience, and the enduring love for her son.

We sit down with Pam, who shares the devastating story of losing her son Ryan to suicide.

Suicide Hotline Click Here

Other helpful links discussed in the video:

Teen Lifeline or Call and Text Crisis Line: 602-248-8336 (TEEN)

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health Superheros

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Pam talks openly about her experiences as a mother on the day Ryan died and the profound impact it had on her life. She emphasizes the importance of not being ashamed of Ryan or the fact of his suicide. Pam discusses the emotional journey of navigating such a tragic loss and highlights the resources available for parents, teachers, and teens struggling with mental health issues. She also shares how her strong support system has helped carry her through these difficult times. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about loss, resilience, and hope, as we explore the truth about teen suicide from a mother's perspective.

In Episode 20 of the Lost Child Podcast, we sit down with Kara, who shares her heartbreaking journey of loss and resilience.

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At 17, Kara faced the tragic death of her mother in a car accident. Seven years later, her sister succumbed to breast cancer after a fierce battle, only to have it return and spread to her brain and lungs. Nine years after that, Kara's brother died of a heart attack. Just last year, Kara's father passed away, adding to the weight of her grief.

Over the last 23 years, Kara has lost four close family members, each loss uniquely devastating. She opens up about how these profound losses have shaped her life, how she now grieves not only her own pain but also the grief of others, and the ongoing journey of healing.

Join us for this powerful episode as Kara bravely shares her story of enduring love, loss, and the strength to continue forward.

In Episode 19 of Season 2, we sit down with Dana as he bravely shares the heart-wrenching story of his son Ryan. Ryan battled depression and anxiety throughout his teenage years, struggles that ultimately led to him taking his own life.

Suicide Hotline Click Here

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Mental Health Super Heros discussed in the Podcast

Dana opens up about the devastating impact of Ryan's death on their family and how they have chosen to turn their grief into a mission for change. This episode delves into the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially among teenagers. Dana discusses the signs and struggles that Ryan faced, and how their family is working to bring awareness to these critical issues in hopes of preventing other families from experiencing the same pain.

Join us for a poignant conversation about the journey from tragedy to advocacy, and the enduring legacy of Ryan's story. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support and suicide awareness.