We recently connected with Kimberly Fleming and have shared our conversation below.

Kimberly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

The story behind our mission begins with my son, David Joseph Cobb! David battled mental illness for many years and sadly died by suicide on October 23, 2015, at the age of 17 when he could no longer fight the demons of mental illness. David was my beloved son, best friend, heart and soul, and whole life…he was my only child!

The David J Cobb Foundation was established in June 2016 to honor David and to raise awareness of mental illness and suicide prevention. In the years before my son’s passing, I struggled to find programs or resources to help not only my son but myself navigate the mental health system. We aim to bridge that gap and provide resources to those struggling and their families who might not know what to do or where to go. We direct them to community resources who can get them the help they need.

We will be the voice for those who suffer in silence, and I will continue to honor my son and keep his legacy alive by helping as many people as possible.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For 10 years I watched my son struggle in every aspect of his life, despite my dedication to his well-being. I struggled daily to understand what he was going through and fought hard to figure out how to best help him. For many, waking up every morning is effortless but for David, it was a struggle. It was a struggle because he knew he would have to spend the day fighting all the demons and voices in his head, in addition to dealing with all the daily struggles of just being a teenager. He spent many days alone because it was just easier for him. He wouldn’t get panic attacks and he wouldn’t get bullied because he was “different”. I admired him so much for his strength, courage, and determination. ​I only hope that sharing David’s story will speak to someone who is struggling to get the help they need.

We offer an annual scholarship to a graduating senior, we provide Tier 1 elementary schools with school supplies, we facilitate 2 suicide loss survivor support groups, and we attend local mental health/suicide prevention events to share our story and direct people to resources and services.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

In the face of unimaginable loss, I found a strength I never knew I had. After the heart-wrenching tragedy of losing my son to suicide, I channeled my grief into a force for change. I established a nonprofit with a mission to provide support and hope to those grappling with similar sorrows. Through this endeavor, I’ve created a community where shared experiences foster healing and where every story told fortifies our collective resilience. My journey is a testament to the power of turning personal anguish into a beacon of light for others.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

In life, people often expect support from close family, friends, or long-time colleagues. However, these expectations can sometimes lead to disappointment when those expected to be supportive are not available or able to provide the needed help. On the flip side, support can surprisingly arise from acquaintances, professional networks, or even strangers who connect with your situation or needs.

For instance, losing a loved one to suicide is an incredibly lonely experience and unless you have experienced this type of loss, you wouldn’t understand what type of support is needed. Those in your life mean well but sometimes it’s just easier to retreat than fear saying or doing the wrong thing. Through my journey, I have found support from community members I have met along the way and those who have experienced the same loss as myself.

This lesson teaches the value of broad social networks and being open to forming connections outside of one’s immediate circle. It also highlights the importance of not taking any relationship for granted and recognizing that everyone has the potential to offer something valuable.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://djcfoundation.org
• Instagram: David J Cobb Foundation
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djcfoundation
• Twitter: @djcfoundation17

Image Credits
Jonathan Fleming