Christopher’s Story
Early Life and Passion for Football
Christopher started playing sports at a very young age. He tried many of them, basketball, lacrosse, soccer and many others. At the tender age of 9, Christopher discovered his passion for football, which quickly became an obsession. He was determined to excel and aimed to surpass his father's weightlifting record at Columbine High School, a goal he achieved with pride. Known as “the hardest hitter in high school,” Christopher was a force on the field, and opponents often feared facing him.
The Toll of Injuries
With contact sports come inevitable injuries, and Christopher became all too familiar with this harsh reality. His knees, back, and numerous concussions plagued him, sometimes leaving him feeling defeated. This physical toll also affected his mental health, leading to bouts of depression, especially when injuries kept him from playing. His family noticed these mood changes, and the cycle of injury and recovery became a recurring theme in Christopher's life.
In September 2021, Christopher experienced a significant setback during a football game, one that sidelined him for the remainder of the year. The visible desperation on his face told a story of frustration and longing to return to the field.
High School Triumphs and College Challenges
Christopher’s passion for the sport was evident in every game. Teammates admired his dedication and sportsmanship. Despite the setbacks, Christopher finished high school strong, continuing to play the sport he loved and earning a scholarship to Mesa State University. However, college presented new challenges—balancing relationships, demanding classes, social activities, and rigorous football practices.
The Impact of Concussions
Throughout his football career, Christopher sustained eight known concussions. Imagine enduring hits similar to those seen in the NFL repeatedly; it's no surprise these injuries took a toll. Concussions can impact a person’s cognitive abilities. The question arises: Did Christopher change throughout his football career?
Family Support and Addressing Depression
Christopher's emotional struggles did not go unnoticed. His parents communicated about his depression and took steps to address it. Their support played a crucial role in Christopher's life, helping him navigate the difficult times caused by his injuries and the pressures of his sport. Those close to him would soon notice subtle eccentricities in his behavior.
Reflections on Christopher’s Story
Christopher's journey is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. His story highlights the physical and emotional challenges faced by athletes, the importance of a supportive family, and the need to address mental health openly. More and more studies each day are being released showing how individuals diagnosed with a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury have a significantly higher risk of attempting suicide or dying by suicide compared to those with a head injury. While football brought both joy and hardship, the lessons learned, and the support received ultimately was just not enough.
“Our adversity, our struggles, what we go through is always going to be too much for ourselves, and maybe too much for even one or two people, but never, never too much for a community. Or never too much for the people in the family that you love. So, we have to share those things”
EXIST FOR CHRIS FOUNDATION:
TURNING TRAGEDY INTO HOPE
Understanding the Impact of Suicide
Suicide is a topic that stirs a myriad of emotions and beliefs. Whether stemming from personal experiences or societal influences, opinions on this sensitive subject vary widely. Some people may view it as a selfish act or a sin, while others struggle to comprehend the pain that leads someone to take their own life. Regardless of individual perspectives, the undeniable truth is that suicide leaves a profound impact on those left behind.
The Ripple Effect of Loss
When someone dies by suicide, the effects ripple throughout their community. It disrupts the natural order of life, leaving parents, siblings, and extended family members grappling with intense emotions and a profound sense of loss. The absence of a loved one changes everything—parents are forever altered, relationships are strained, and the family dynamic is irrevocably changed. There are no simple solutions or moments of "moving on." Instead, there is a lifelong journey of navigating grief and loss. Nonetheless, whether it is sudden or expected, each loss leaves a profound absence in the fabric of our lives.
The Quest for Understanding
The death of a child is an incredibly painful and bewildering experience for everyone involved. Grief is a deeply personal journey, but it is also a universal experience. It can manifest in many forms, from sadness and anger to confusion and disbelief. It's important to recognize that no two situations are alike, and each individual’s experience of their loss of a loved one is different. The reality being, we all seek for answers that we may never get.
Finding Community in Shared Experiences
Through this difficult journey, many find solace in connecting with others who have faced similar losses. Meeting families and individuals who understand the pain can provide a sense of community and support. Whether it has been 25 years or just a few months since their loved one passed, these shared experiences can be a source of comfort and strength.
Moving Forward Together
While the loss of a loved one is devastating, finding ways to support one another can help in the healing process. Open conversations, empathy, and understanding are crucial in this collective journey. Though the road may be long and fraught with challenges, knowing that you are not alone can make all the difference. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on each other as you navigate the path forward.
Our vision is to expand The Exist for Chris Foundation's reach beyond our local community, providing support to families across a broader area. As we grow, we hope to partner with other organizations that share our mission, creating a network of support for families facing the loss of a child.
In founding The Christopher Foundation, we aim to turn our personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for others. While we cannot take away the pain of losing a child, we can offer a helping hand during one of life's most difficult moments. Together, we can make a difference, one family at a time.
“One of the most dangerous places on earth can be inside of your mind
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“I will embrace it, and I will be an advocate for mental health. I been running from it for a long time. I’m not ashamed of it anymore.”
Our First Mission
In honor of Christopher, we are establishing The Exist for Chris Foundation. Our mission is to provide financial support to local families who are struggling to meet the costs associated with their child's funeral. By alleviating some of the financial burdens, we hope to allow families to focus on grieving and healing without the added stress of financial concerns.
Our Second Mission
We would also like to raise funds for suicide prevention in high schools. Suicide prevention speakers can make a significant impact on students. By combining efforts to raise funds and implement comprehensive mental health education, we can create a supportive environment for students, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and ultimately saving lives
Tragedy into Hope
In the face of unimaginable loss, families often encounter overwhelming financial burdens, particularly when it comes to covering the costs associated with a child's funeral. The rising costs of funerals, including expenses for a tombstone, burial, and more, can add significant stress during an already devastating time. After losing our beloved Christopher, we experienced this harsh reality firsthand. It became clear to us that we needed to transform our grief into something that could help others facing similar challenges.
Golf Tournament Fundraiser
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Golf Tournament Fundraiser <>
We are hosting our first fundraiser! Please click here for more information for Swing for Christopher’s First Annual Golf Tournament.
Contact Us
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