THE REASON BEHIND OUR MISSION

Stand By Me 7539 came from the unimaginable loss of my son, Zaiden Mikel, to suicide. 

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Zaiden was not only a son, but he was also a brother, a grandson, an uncle, and a friend to many. He was a jokester who loved fishing, music, animals, going on adventures, and was just simply Zaiden. He had a way of making people laugh, or making them mad, but no matter what he had a way of making sure you remembered him.

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Zaiden's journey on Earth only lasted 7,539 days- not nearly enough time. Oh what I would give for a different outcome, more days, more memories, more time with him. 

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Losing him opened my eyes to the stigma surrounding mental health, the limited resources available in rural areas and the lack of year-round support for those experiencing grief in our community. Too many people struggle to find understanding, support, and resources they need. 

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I chose to turn my pain into purpose by creating Stand By Me 7539- a place where people can find support, resources, understanding, and hope. Through peer support, community activities, and opportunities to come together, we strive to create a sense of belonging and remind people they are not alone. 

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Hope for tomorrow. Healing within reach.

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                                                                                        Jeanie Watkins

                                                                                            President/Founder​