On January 7, 2023, the world lost a bright light when Reese Widman, a 17-year-old baseball enthusiast and star student, tragically took his own life. Despite his passing, Reese’s legacy continues to shine through Widdys Work, a non-profit organization founded by his family to promote mental health awareness and provide hope to those in need.
The Journey of Reese Widman
Reese, affectionately nicknamed “Widdy” by his baseball teammates, was a senior at Steilacoom High School. He had a passion for baseball, a charismatic personality, and a heart full of love for his family and friends. In 2020, Reese’s life changed when he was diagnosed with epilepsy, a condition that deeply troubled him. His parents, Corey and Kelly Widman, believe that the medications prescribed for epilepsy contributed to his mental health struggles, leading to feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of suicide.
The Impact of Epilepsy on Mental Health
Kelly, a registered nurse, explained that people with neurological disorders like epilepsy are at a higher risk of mental health issues. While medications can help manage seizures, some may have rare but severe side effects, including depression and suicidal thoughts. Reese, who kept his diagnosis private, struggled silently, fearing judgment and wanting to maintain his role as a leader among his peers.
Messages of Hope
After Reese’s passing, his parents discovered 13 heartfelt notes in his nightstand. One note to his baseball teammates urged them to “Do what I couldn’t do; get help.” These words became a cornerstone of Widdy’s Work’s mission: to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage open conversations about suicide.
Corey shared, “Even when Reese couldn’t see a way out for himself, he was looking out for others. He wanted us to help as many people as we can.”
The Birth of Widdy’s Work
Three months after Reese’s death, his family established Widdy’s Work to share Reese’s story and advocate for mental health awareness. The organization reaches parents, educators, doctors, and teens, spreading the message that it’s okay to talk about mental health struggles and seek help.
Kelly emphasized, “Talking about suicide doesn’t make it more prevalent; it helps people feel less isolated and more supported.”
Events and Advocacy
Widdy’s Work organizes events like the annual Reese Widman Memorial Baseball Tournament and the “Stomp Out the Stigma” 5k walk/run. These events not only honor Reese’s memory but also raise awareness about the importance of mental health. Kelly has also become an Epilepsy Advocacy Champion and is training to be a teen mental health first aid instructor. Corey speaks at community events, inspiring others to take action.
Social Media’s Role in Mental Health
While Reese’s family does not attribute his struggles to social media, they acknowledge its impact on teens. Corey noted, “When we were kids, the school day ended when the bell rang. Today, kids are always online, with no break from the pressures of social media.”
The CDC reports that suicide rates among teens have risen dramatically in recent years, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures.
Remembering Reese
Reese’s story is a reminder that mental health struggles do not define a person. “If you knew Reese, you knew this wasn’t him,” Corey said. “He was charismatic, loving, and protective of his friends and family.”
Learn more about Reese’s legacy and the work being done to honor him at Widdy’s Work. Together, we can strike out the stigma surrounding mental health and save lives.