Down by the Cypress Trees

Honestly, I had a few different ideas for tonight’s blog post, but that all went out the window when I heard the news.

Tonight, I want to pay tribute to the definition of a selfless human being, Mrs. Rosalynn Carter, who passed away today surrounded by family aged 96.

The wife of 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, Rosalynn made a name all her own during the Carters’ tenure in the White House. She became a staunch advocate for those suffering with mental illness, and many positive changes in the way mental health is treated in this country have been because of her efforts.

Her death strikes me personally for many reasons. For one, I grew up watching the post-presidency years of the Carters, during which President and Mrs. Carter worked tirelessly to just make the world a better place. They worked with Habitat for Humanity, building homes — and a future — for those struggling most in our world. Beyond that, their philanthropic efforts in countless other causes were unmatched. They have been an inspiration to me as I get involved in my community and do what I can to make the world a better place.

As someone who struggles mightily with mental health conditions, I also mourn tonight. She made it her mission to ensure that the struggles of those with mental health conditions do not go unnoticed. She advocated for more and better treatments for those living with mental health conditions. And, most importantly, she made sure that we in the mental illness community knew somebody cared about us.

My heart breaks for Jimmy Carter, who lost his biggest supporter today. I can only imagine the pain and grief he must be feeling as he goes to sleep tonight without Rosalynn by his side.

Let us all continue Rosalynn Carter’s legacy and shine a light on the struggles that those of us with mental health conditions face every single day. And like Rosalynn taught us, let us all just care for each other. So much love to you all.