Dear friends,
It is hard for me to fathom that it has been almost seven years that my amazing Godson Forrest left this world. Not a day goes by that his loss is not felt. So many of you have walked with me on this journey, and for that I am truly grateful.
Forrest III, his father, has been one of my close friends since we were at Cal State Fullerton together in 1984. The Brown children and the four Werner kids, Whitney, Forrest, Haley and Hayden literally grew up together and our families share many fantastic memories.
The loss of Forrest was extremely painful to all, but most especially to Forrest’s younger brother Hayden. Tragically, Hayden took his life the following year on May 20, 2016. These two amazing young men were as close as brothers could be. They insisted on sleeping in their childhood bunk beds when they were back at home together and they were known to drag out the big tub of Legos and build amazing things together. They shared a love of reading, the outdoors…especially the ocean, as both were accomplished lifeguards and water polo players. Forrest graduated from Sonoma State with honors and Hayden was attending UCSB on a scholarship. These were charismatic, charming, intelligent, thoughtful, faith-filled young men and their loss is profound.
Through With Hope, the Amber Craig foundation, a greater light shines on the need for intervention and suicide prevention. Through their education and empowerment programs, both in-person and on-line much of the stigma of mental health issues is diminished. Through the challenges of the past two years, With Hope has not only extended their reach outside of California, but have implemented a significant bereavement support arm to assist families struggling with a suicide loss.
It is unfortunate that the services we provide are needed more now than ever before. Suicide, depression and anxiety are at all-time highs. Joining or financially supporting Team Werner is appreciated more than you may know. I continue my support of With Hope not only as a team captain for the Walk With Hope, but also as a volunteer in any capacity that will be of assistance to the cause.
Donating through this website is simple and secure. It is the best way I know to honor the memories of Forrest and Hayden and to help save lives.
May God bless you abundantly for all your love and kindness over the years and your continued generosity in supporting With Hope.
Kim
