Ed was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and, tragically, didn’t receive the adequate support he needed and deserved. His sudden, unexpected death at age 30 left a profound void in his mother’s life and in our family. His passing was particularly traumatic for his mum, not only due to its sudden nature but also because of how he was treated as a young, mixed-race man by the paramedics and medical professionals.

Ed was one of the kindest, most patient people I’ve ever known. His generosity extended beyond his death—as an organ donor, he saved five lives. This selfless act was typical of Ed, who was rarely physically ill and whose passing came as a complete shock due to an aneurysm.

Initially inspired by Ed’s story and the well-meaning but sometimes shocking comments people made even years later, I decided to provide support through creative crafting sessions for those struggling with grief. I wanted to create a safe space for people like his mum, where they wouldn’t have to listen to remarks from people who, despite good intentions, didn’t understand their experience and would unintentionally cause more pain.

Through my grief education training, which I pursued to help his mum and others in similar situations, I discovered healing for my own lifelong depression and anxiety. I learned that there are over 60 types of losses, including my own childhood losses—loss of trust, control over my body, and loss of childhood itself.

Ed’s death brought me a whole new career and set me on a path to happiness. We celebrate his life, his kindness, and love while also acknowledging the pain of his mental health struggles and the lack of support he received. Over time, my focus expanded to include individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses, influenced by both personal experience and the recognition that unresolved grief and trauma can manifest physically. When chronic illness made regular in-person craft sessions too taxing, I adapted, continuing my professional development through certifications in Grief Recovery, Edu-Therapy, coaching, and mentoring.