Today we’d like to introduce you to Lana Gruell

Hi Lana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

My daughter Cashleigh was a bright, vibrant individual whose presence lit up every room. Her kindness, compassion, and strength were inspiring, touching the lives of everyone around her. Tragically, we lost Cashleigh to suicide, a heartbreaking event that underscored the urgent need for accessible mental health resources and support for young people.

In the wake of this devastating loss, I was determined to honor Cashleigh’s memory by helping others who might be struggling. This determination led to the creation of The Cashleigh Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to youth suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Our mission is to provide free telehealth talk therapy to youth nationwide, partnering with licensed therapists to offer the crucial support that can save lives.

Forming The Cashleigh Foundation has been a journey of healing and hope. Through our work, we strive to make a difference in the lives of young people, ensuring that they have access to the mental health resources they need. Cashleigh’s legacy lives on through the foundation, as we continue to advocate for a world where every youth can find the support and understanding they deserve.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Losing Cashleigh was an unimaginable blow, leaving me engulfed in grief and trauma that feels insurmountable most days. The pain of her absence is a constant companion, affecting every aspect of my life and leaving me grappling with emotions I can barely comprehend. Each day is a struggle honestly, filled with moments of profound sadness and a longing for her presence. Yet, through this darkness, I’ve come to a place of understanding that healing from such a deep loss is not a destination but a journey. It’s a path filled with ups and downs, where progress is often slow and nonlinear. Forming The Cashleigh Foundation is a vital part of this journey, providing a sense of purpose and a way to channel my grief into something positive. Through the foundation’s work, I’ve found a way to honor Cashleigh’s memory and help others facing similar struggles, turning my pain into a driving force for change and healing.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

The Cashleigh Foundation is dedicated to youth suicide prevention by focusing on early intervention and mental health support. Unlike many organizations that specialize in crisis intervention, we aim to reach young people long before they face a mental health crisis, providing the resources and support they need to thrive. As the founder, I am committed to expanding our reach and impact, but we can’t do it alone. We need help in many forms—donations, corporate sponsors, grants, and partnerships with therapists nationwide. By building a robust network, we can connect youth with the services they need and create a lasting difference in their lives.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?

Starting The Cashleigh Foundation was made possible with the invaluable guidance of a mentor I found through the SCORE program. My three adult children—Chelsea, Dontae, and Darion—have been instrumental in helping me, alongside our dedicated board, close friends, and my sister. The support from complete strangers on social media has also been overwhelming, and I am deeply grateful for their encouragement and belief in our mission. Together, this incredible network of support has empowered us to build and grow our nonprofit, making a meaningful impact on youth mental health.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thecashleighfoundation.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missingmygirl_csgfe20/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lana.Gruell
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@missingmygirl_csgfe20
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@missingmygirl_csgfe20