LEXINGTON, Ky. — Heather Mammen is still grappling with the pain of losing her daughter, Elaina, in a tragic shooting back in 2022. Every day, she tracks the tough times—the days she struggles to get out of bed and relies on sleep medication.
It’s been two years, and Mammen is thankful she hasn’t faced hospitalization for her mental health. “I’m just glad I’m here and haven’t gone off the deep end,” she reflects, knowing the upcoming trial for those charged in her daughter’s death will bring back painful memories.
To cope with her grief and honor Elaina’s memory, Mammen started the “Go Light Our World Project,” known as GLOW. Its aim is to create a supportive community for youth and young adults. “We want to help those who are here now,” she explains about the project’s mission.
Mammen is especially passionate about launching a scholarship to assist young people looking for guidance. She believes that many, like the young man involved in her daughter’s tragedy, could have benefited from support in pursuing trades or education.
“Not everyone can afford college or has the best grades. This scholarship is for those who want to explore trade schools but lack resources,” she emphasizes.
Coming up on February 8, GLOW is sponsoring the Jock Sutherland Classic basketball tournament. This event has been part of their journey since shortly after Elaina’s passing.
Kala Decker, one of Elaina’s closest friends, is also involved with GLOW and shares Mammen’s struggles. “It’s tough. I look at her picture every night, and her stuffed toys are still on my nightstand,” she says, tears in her eyes.
Both Mammen and Decker hope GLOW inspires others. Mammen encourages anyone struggling, saying, “That light you see behind a closed door will shine for you one day.”
For more information about the Go Light Our World Project, you can visit their website: GLOW Project | Home.
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