09/01/2025
💙💜 September is National Su***de Awareness Month.
September is also the month our oldest son, Cooper, was born.
On September 3rd, 2025, Cooper would have turned 21. The last birthday we got to celebrate with him was his 15th.
Cooper never showed signs of struggling. Around us, he was just a typical teenage boy—sometimes stubborn, sometimes negotiating his way out of chores, and sometimes arguing about mushrooms on a pizza. Most of the time, though, he was our goofball. He loved making us laugh, raiding the pantry, and spending time with his siblings.
We have so many beautiful memories; board games, nerf wars, boating, tubing, road trips, basketball in the driveway, kayaking, swimming, eating at his favorite restaurants, and late night laughs with friends. He always seemed happy, content, and full of life.
That’s why the night we received the most devastating call of our lives felt impossible to comprehend. Our hearts shattered. The denial was overwhelming. Cooper was smart, loved deeply, had friends, dreams, and so much ahead of him. We couldn’t understand. We still don’t.
The “what ifs” and “if onlys” will forever live with us. The questions of why remain unanswered. And yet, even in our brokenness, we know we must keep moving forward for Cooper, for our family, and for others walking through this pain.
💙 The truth is you never really know what someone is going through.
💜 A single conversation can save a life.
💙 Kindness matters more than you think.
💜 Take care of yourself, and check in on those you love.
💙 Be the reason someone chooses to stay.
You matter.
You are loved.
Your story isn’t over; please choose life.
Sending love and hugs to everyone touched by su***de and mental illness. 💙💜
www.Leanonfoundation.com