In the heart of Tucson, Arizona, the Ardrey family has been navigating the challenging aftermath of 13-year-old Ethan Ardrey’s tragic death nearly four years ago. TLNA9 has been closely following the family’s efforts to preserve Ethan’s memory and contribute to mental health awareness in the Vail community.

Reflecting on Progress

Ethan’s mother, Christina Winner, recently granted an exclusive interview, providing insight into the family’s journey over the past four years. Winner expressed a deep commitment to ensuring Ethan’s name lives on, emphasizing her dedication until her last day. The conversation delved into Winner’s experiences with grief, shedding light on the profound impact of losing a child who would have turned 17 this month.

Winner shared the emotional rollercoaster of grief, admitting, “Some days I don’t even know how I am going to make it out of bed…but I do.” The resilience displayed in the face of such adversity highlights the family’s strength and determination.

The Ethan Ardrey Project: Spreading Hope Through Art

The Ardrey family has channeled their grief into a meaningful initiative known as The Ethan Ardrey Project. One notable aspect of the project is the creation of mental health rocks, designed to serve as a daily reminder that no one is alone, no matter how burdensome life may feel.

Winner spoke about the impact of these rocks, stating, “We put the rocks out, and we have had people come pick it up, and I can’t tell you how many people have reached out to me saying they found the rock at the right moment in their life.” This simple yet powerful gesture has touched the lives and hearts of individuals throughout the Vail community, creating a lasting legacy for Ethan.

Mental Health Awareness Walk

As part of their ongoing efforts, Ethan’s family is organizing a “Mental Health Awareness Walk” on Saturday, February 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event, hosted at Cienega High School, aims to bring the community together in support of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

To learn more about The Ethan Ardrey Project and the upcoming event, interested individuals can visit the project’s website for additional information.

National Resources

In the spirit of broader mental health awareness, it’s essential to provide resources for those in need. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available by calling 988, offering support and assistance for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Nurturing Hope and Resilience

The Ardrey family’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience and the transformative impact of channeling grief into meaningful initiatives. By openly sharing their experiences and fostering community engagement, they have created a lasting legacy for Ethan, reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness and support. As the Vail community comes together for the Mental Health Awareness Walk, it serves as a testament to the strength found in unity and the potential for positive change even in the face of profound loss.