I support the Boise Pickleball Mental Health Fundraiser because of a deeply personal experience in my life. In March of 2023, my uncle, Chris, who was a stoic and quiet member of our family, tragically took his own life. His passing left us grappling with profound grief and disbelief.

 

Chris was the epitome of stability and resilience—a cowboy, a farmer, and a man with a dry humor that always brought laughter. His sudden loss blindsided us all, highlighting the hidden struggles that can lurk beneath even the most stoic exteriors.

 

Witnessing the devastation his death wrought upon his wife, children, and grandchildren was heart-wrenching. It forced me to confront the harsh reality that mental health challenges, including depression, are not uncommon within my own family, and perhaps even within myself.

 

Instead of concealing these struggles, I believe it's imperative to bring them into the light. We cannot continue to endure silently or numb our pain with substances. It's time to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness and take proactive steps toward healing and support.

 

By supporting events like the Boise Pickleball Mental Health Fundraiser, we can contribute to destigmatizing mental health discussions and ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.

 

Together, let's foster a community where everyone's emotions are validated, and where resources and support are readily available for those in need. If you're grappling with your mental health, please know that you are not alone.

 

Katie Rosenberg

Ascent Boise Real Estate

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