We are so excited to introduce you to Heather Wyatt as our Mom Feature Friday! Thanks for the opportunity to feature you, Heather! After everything that she has gone through over the past year, we wanted this mama to be able to share her story directly with you! Take it away, Heather ⬇️

“My name is Heather, and I'm 34 years old. I'm blessed to be the mother of three incredible children. My oldest daughter, Taylor, is 16, full of life and energy. My middle daughter, Aubreigh, who would have been 14, tragically passed away at the age of 13. Her memory is a profound part of our lives. Aubreigh had a bubbly , silly,  and energetic personality!  My youngest is my son, Ryker, who is 7 years old and always keeps us laughing. 

As a family, we're incredibly close. We always have been! Then with the loss of Aubreigh that bond only magnified.  We have an unwavering support for one another. Our faith in Christ is the foundation  of our lives. Our faith and trust in God has gotten us through both joyous and challenging times, especially over the past year with the devastation and heartbreak of losing Aubreigh. 

All three of my children have always been outgoing and bubbly, with a natural ability to connect with others. They love meeting new people and making friends, which adds so much joy to our lives.

Together, we cherish traveling to new places, creating lasting memories, and embracing new experiences. Exploring new places as a family has been one of our greatest joys.”

⍰ Can you share about Aubreigh's story and details about the Aubreigh Wyatt foundation?

“Aubreigh, my beautiful daughter, was a vibrant and radiant child, both inside and out. She had a light that shone brightly in our lives and in the lives of everyone who knew her. Aubreigh faced significant challenges . She was bullied on and off for a few years, and the mental anguish caused by this bullying , cyber bullying, and digital harassment  just became to overwhelming.

On September 4th, we experienced the unimaginable loss of Aubreigh when she took her own life. This loss has left a void in our lives .  We hold tightly to the memories of the joy and love she brought into the world. 

Through the Aubreigh Wyatt Foundation, we aim to honor her memory , bringing awareness to and supporting programs on, teen suicide, bullying, and mental health. 

The Aubreigh Wyatt Foundation was established as a way to honor Aubreigh’s life and continue her legacy while helping others.   The foundation aims to raise awareness, provide support, and promote education surrounding bullying, mental health, and teen suicide: Through various initiatives, the foundation seeks to uplift and inspire  individuals to seek help, while also fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.

With mental health becoming an increasingly urgent topic in today’s society, the Aubreigh Wyatt Foundation strives to address the stigma associated with mental health disorders. By sharing Aubreigh’s story and the challenges she faced, the foundation hopes to encourage others to open up about their struggles and seek the help they need. The mission extends beyond awareness; we also focus on providing resources, funding for therapy, and one day educational programs, aiming to create a long-lasting impact in mental health care.

As the foundation continues to grow, it remains committed to its core values of compassion, empathy, and advocacy. Through community outreach and partnerships with mental health professionals, the Aubreigh Wyatt Foundation is working tirelessly to ensure that no one feels alone in their fight against mental health challenges.”

When asked to share one piece of advice to all the mamas out there, this is what she said:

1. Cherish Every Moment: Life is unpredictable, and the moments we have with our children are precious. Make the most of the time you have together, creating memories filled with love, joy, and support.

2. Advocate for Your Child: Always be your child’s strongest advocate, whether it’s in school, socially, or in any other aspect of their life. Don’t hesitate to step in when you know something isn’t right, especially when it comes to their mental health and well-being.

3. Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication. Let your children know that they can talk to you about anything, and that you’re there to listen without judgment. This can help them feel safe and supported.

4. Support Mental Health: Pay attention to the mental and emotional well-being of your children. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if they’re struggling. Early intervention can make a huge difference.

5. Be and set the example:  Always treat others with kindness, even in challenging situations. Show your children that being kind is not just about how we treat those we like, but how we treat everyone, including those who may be different or difficult. Reject Gossip Make it clear that gossip has no place in your home. Avoid speaking negatively about others, especially in front of your children. Instead, focus on positive conversations and encourage them to see the good in others. Be an active advocate against bullying. Teach your children to stand up for those who are being mistreated and to never participate in or tolerate bullying behavior. Show them how to be allies to others in need of support. Show empathy in your interactions by listening and understanding other people’s feelings. Encourage your children to put themselves in others’ shoes before judging or reacting. This fosters compassion and discourages harmful behavior.