Seven years ago today, a dream became a reality when the very first copies of my children’s book, Where Did Mommy’s Smile Go?, arrived hot off the press on my front porch.
It was a dream I never imagined before my illness changed my life 12 years ago.
When I first sat down to write a poem in early 2018, it was simply something I wanted my own children to read. But the more I read it, the more I realized this was a message I needed to share beyond my own family.
Seven years later, this little labour of love has reached so many people, helping parents, caregivers, teachers and loved ones open conversations with children about depression, mental health and the feelings that can sometimes be so difficult to put into words.
And right now, that message feels more important than ever.
Over the past couple of weeks, statistics released by Kids Help Phone have shown that late-night and overnight texting conversations (8 p.m. to 8 a.m.) with young people have increased by 24% since June 30.
Think about that.
In the middle of the night, when the rest of the world is quiet and a child or teenager is lying awake with their thoughts, worries or feelings they don’t know what to do with, more young people are reaching out for help.
And with back-to-school just around the corner, I think that’s a number we need to pay attention to.
A new school year can bring excitement and new beginnings, but it can also bring anxiety, loneliness, pressure, friendship struggles and a whole lot of emotions that aren’t always easy for kids to express.
Kids Help Phone gives young people a place to “Feel Out Loud” confidentially and without judgment, at any hour of the day or night.
That’s why I’m especially proud to announce that from now until Labour Day, I’ll be donating my proceeds from every copy of Where Did Mommy’s Smile Go? sold to Kids Help Phone to help them reach their goal from August 10 to September 11, where donations to Kids Help Phone will be matched by the J&W Murphy Foundation, up to $250,000. The funds will help strengthen overnight support, expand language access and provide resources as young people head back to school and the anticipated fall increase in distress begins.
That’s also why I published “Where Did Mommy’s Smile Go?” in the first place.
To help open the door to important conversations about feelings.
To remind children that it’s okay not to be okay.
And, most importantly, that it’s okay to ask for help.
And sometimes, a conversation can remind a child that they don’t have to face their feelings alone.
With a new school year fast approaching, “Where Did Mommy’s Smile Go?” would make a meaningful addition to a school library or classroom, or you can grab a copy for your own child, grandchild, a friend, or someone who simply needs a little help finding the words.
Seven years after that first box arrived on my front porch, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate this book and the message behind it.
Kids Help Phone: TEXT 686868
@kidshelpphone #wheredidmommyssmilego #mentalhealth #backtoschool
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