Honoring Addy's Legacy: A Mission to Spread Kindness and Support for Families in Need

As Addy's mother, I want to share the incredible journey of my daughter—a journey that was marked by unimaginable challenges but also by her unwavering spirit. Addy was more than just a survivor; she was a shining light of kindness and strength. Despite the horrific abuse she suffered at the hands of her biological father and the relentless bullying she faced at school, she never lost her spark or her compassion for others. Her story is one of courage and resilience, inspiring a mission to create a kinder world for children and families who endure similar struggles.

Addy's Story of Survival and Strength

Addy’s mental health challenges began after the sexual abuse inflicted by her biological father. This trauma left deep scars, but every day, she fought to heal and to keep her kindness alive. She attended therapy regularly for years, showing remarkable bravery as she confronted her pain.

We moved to a new community, hoping for a fresh start, but the challenges did not cease. In the Waukee school district, Addy faced bullying that only grew worse. In fifth grade, she was punished for defending herself against a boy who pushed her and attempted to remove her pants on the playground. The school took no action against him, leaving Addy feeling vulnerable and unprotected.

Sixth grade brought a glimmer of hope as Addy found a supportive group of friends. However, seventh grade proved to be the hardest year of her life. She was physically assaulted and verbally harassed by a boy and his friends. Threatening messages followed, including from a girl she knew from church. Despite our pleas for help to the school and police, no effective support was given. The bullying escalated to such an extent that Addy had no choice but to leave traditional school and switch to online learning.

The Impact on Mental Health and the Fight for Support

The ongoing bullying and trauma took a severe toll on Addy’s mental health. She endured multiple inpatient psychiatric stays and was under the care of a psychiatrist, receiving medication. Unfortunately, these efforts fell short of alleviating her suffering.

Addy’s story underscores the gaps in support systems for children facing abuse and bullying. Schools and authorities often fail to protect vulnerable students, leaving families to navigate these complex challenges alone. This lack of support can exacerbate mental health struggles and leave children feeling isolated.

Carrying on Addy's Mission

Despite everything, Addy’s kindness and her desire to make the world a better place never waned. She wanted everyone to feel seen, loved, and supported. After her tragic passing by suicide on October 23, 2025, our family chose to honor her legacy by continuing her mission.

This mission focuses on:

• Spreading kindness in schools and communities.

• Supporting parents and children dealing with abuse, bullying, and mental health challenges.

• Raising awareness about the importance of early intervention and compassionate care.

• Advocating for better school policies to protect students from bullying and abuse.

• Providing resources for families seeking help.

Practical Steps for Families Facing Similar Challenges

Families grappling with abuse and bullying can often feel overwhelmed and alone. Here are some practical steps to help protect and support children:

• Seek professional help early: Regular therapy and psychiatric care can provide essential support.

• Document incidents: Keep detailed records of bullying or abuse, including dates, descriptions, and any communications with schools or authorities.

• Advocate persistently: Don’t hesitate to push schools and law enforcement to take action. Involve child protective services if necessary.

• Build a support network: Connect with other parents, support groups, and community organizations.

• Explore alternative schooling options: If traditional schools fail to provide a safe environment, consider online or specialized education programs.

• Focus on kindness and resilience: Encourage children to express their feelings and build self-esteem through positive activities and relationships.

Why Addy's Story Matters

Addy’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the real consequences of abuse and bullying. It emphasizes the critical need for communities to listen, act, and support children in need. Her story encourages us all to create environments where every child feels safe and valued.

By sharing Addy’s journey, we hope to inspire change and offer hope to others. We want parents and children to know they are not alone, and that kindness can be a powerful force for healing.