On September 19, 2023, I lost my boyfriend, Justin Reid, to suicide. His passing left a hole in my heart that I could never have imagined, a pain that words can hardly describe. Justin was my partner, my confidant, and my best friend. His laugher, warmth, and kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. To know him was to love him. He would do anything for anyone, including giving the shirt off his own back. He had an infectious spirit that made the world brighter, but there were parts of him I didn't always see- parts that, in the end, led to a place of darkness.

In the wake of his death, I was left with overwhelming grief and an urgent desire to do something that would make a difference, as well as help me cope, that could honor Justin's memory while helping others who are struggling. And so, I turned to crochet as my outlet.

What started as a way to process my emotions has grown into a meaningful journey to raise awareness about suicide prevention, mental health, and the importance of checking in on our loved ones. Each stitch I make is an act of love, a tribute to Justin's memory, and a reminder of the need to break the silence surrounding mental health- I want to create a community of support and understanding, to let people know they are not alone.

The proceeds from every item sold go directly toward funding my graduate school journey as I work to get my Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well as supplies for mental health/creative arts workshops to bring others together through a creative and fun way. My goal is to help others who, like Justin, are struggling with mental health challenges, and to make a lasting impact on those in need of support. This is my way of turning my grief into action, of making a different in honor of Justin's life and the lives of others who need help.

I will forever carry Justin's memory with me, and through my business, I hope to keep his spirit alive by using my grief as a tool for healing and change. This journey is not just about me; it's about everyone who's been touched by loss, and it's about starting conversation that can save lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. There is always hope, and there is always help.

Thank you for supporting this cause, for honoring Justin's memory, and for joining me in the mission to raise awareness and spread love.

With all my heart,
Devon 

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