Remembering Zach: A Family’s Fight for Mental Health Awareness
More than ten years after losing her son, Zach Kroll, Lori Kroll and her family are dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. Their nonprofit, Love and Lean, aims to reduce the stigma around mental health issues.
Zach was a joyful and gentle spirit, always ready to cheer people up with his humor. He loved playing the drums and was active in sports, particularly soccer. “He was the kid who would help anyone in need, even if it made him late for class,” Lori recalls.
Zach’s death in 2015 took everyone by surprise. He was the one who brought joy and laughter, and no one saw the struggles he faced. “He masked his depression well. We had no idea of his pain,” Lori reflects. The culture surrounding mental health was different back then, making it even harder for someone like Zach to open up.
These challenges propelled the Kroll family into action. “We knew we had to change the conversation around mental health,” Lori explains. Their journey began with participation in the Stomp Out Stigma Walk in Grand Rapids, where they walked in memory of Zach alongside friends and family.
Inspired by this experience, Lori wanted to create a local event for their community. The name “Love and Lean” comes from a dream Lori had after Zach’s death—it was a message of support that felt important to share. She began illustrating stick figures, reminiscent of Zach’s own drawings, to symbolize the message.
The annual Love and Lean 5K at Zeeland Stadium has grown over the years, now attracting about 650 participants. This event fosters a sense of community, allowing people to come together to remember loved ones lost to mental health struggles, or to support each other in their journeys.
“In the past, discussing mental health felt taboo. We’re helping people feel they are not alone,” Lori notes. This year, the event also supports several other nonprofits, including Team Be Better and i understand, which focus on mental health resources.
Statistics show that mental health is increasingly becoming a public topic, particularly among young people. A 2022 survey indicated that 80% of teens feel comfortable talking about mental health, compared to only 30% a decade ago. This shift reflects a growing awareness and acceptance in society, driven in part by advocacy efforts like Love and Lean.
While Lori wishes Zach were still here, she believes he would be proud of their progress. “We’re saving lives by being open about our experience,” she says. “I think he’d say, ‘Good job, Mom!’ and give me a big hug.”
For those interested in participating, the 10th Annual Love and Lean Walk/Run is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at Zeeland Stadium. It offers not just a run, but a day of healing and connection for all those affected by mental health difficulties.
You can learn more about Love and Lean and register for the event here.
Source link
FOX 17,FOX 17 News,Holland,Michigan,Ottawa,Ottawa County,Zeeland
