The Unforeseen Losses That Make Us Pause:

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Honoring Hunter and Carla

Life has a way of jolting us awake when we least expect it. Today as I took my lunch out and opened Facebook, I received heartbreaking news: my dear friend Carla took her own life on Monday, May 12, 2025—the day after Mother’s Day, and only a few months into becoming a grandmother. Just a couple of months ago, my cousin Hunter also died by suicide. Both losses have left me reeling, grappling with sorrow and a profound sense of helplessness.

I cried for Carla, for Hunter, and for the immense pain they must have carried—pain that felt insurmountable, perhaps invisible to those around them. I cried for their families, their friends, and everyone who loved them. Suicide is complex, layered with emotions and circumstances that are often difficult to untangle.

Hunter had struggled, and I imagine he was in immense pain that he felt no one could understand nor help him with. I’m not sure. Suicide is complicated, and I have come to understand that as I have gotten older.

Carla, an incredible friend and beautiful soul, took her life on Monday the 12th, the day after Mother’s Day and only a few months into being a grandma. In both cases, I cried. I cried for the ones closest to them, and I cried knowing how much they both must have hurt to feel as though the only relief they could garner was to make a permanent decision to leave this Earth.

Hunter, Carla, I hope you have peace now that you did not find while you were here with us. You are missed, you will forever be loved, and I hope in talking about your death, all of us can help someone else—make it less of a strain to talk about the hard stuff, make it easier for someone to ask for help.

The Silent Epidemic: Understanding the Scope

Suicide remains a pressing public health issue in the United States. In 2023, over 49,000 people died by suicide—that’s one death every 11 minutes. Additionally, 12.8 million adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.7 million made a plan, and 1.5 million attempted suicide. CDC+1USAFacts+1

These numbers are not just statistics; they represent individuals—friends, family members, colleagues—whose lives were cut short by overwhelming despair.

Breaking the Silence: The Importance of Open Conversations

Mental health struggles often go unnoticed, hidden behind smiles and daily routines. The stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent individuals from seeking help, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. It’s crucial to foster environments where open, honest conversations about mental health are encouraged and supported.

Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide resources and support for those affected by mental health conditions. By promoting education and understanding, we can create a society where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Resources: You’re Not Alone

If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available:

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You are not alone, and there are people who care and want to support you.

Honoring Their Memories

In remembering Hunter and Carla, let us commit to being more compassionate, more attentive, and more open. Let’s check in on our loved ones, listen without judgment, and encourage conversations about mental health.

Their lives, though tragically shortened, can inspire us to create a world where mental health is prioritized, and no one feels they have to suffer in silence.

Hunter, Carla, your stories matter. May your memories be a catalyst for change, a reminder of the importance of connection, and a beacon of hope for those still fighting their battles.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out. Help is available, and you are not alone.

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