When thinking about my incredible parents and the legacy they left behind, I am overwhelmed by their selflessness, their dedication to helping others, their emphasis on prioritizing spending quality time with people who were important to them, and their unwavering spirit of fun.

Little did I know that a simple idea I had last year would blossom into something extraordinary— Color War For A Cause - a fun night for adults to let our their inner child, have fun, and give back. With over 100 enthusiastic team members, the energy was amazing! We raced, laughed, ate, drank, danced, and celebrated together.

The mission driving Color War For A Cause is to unite people for a night of pure joy, where our inner children can come out, all while raising funds for meaningful causes. This year, we are focusing on mental health. Reflecting on my upbringing, I recall the special moments shared around the dinner table. Friends were always welcome, and because cell phones didn't exist, we didn't have as many distractions and our dinners were filled with conversations on various subjects. However, one topic remained distressingly absent from our talks: mental health. While this is not a topic that many bring up around the dinner table, in my home it would have helped me comprehend the challenges my own family members faced. As a young girl, I witnessed my mother's tears behind closed doors, and as a teenager, I struggled with resentment towards her sudden moments of frustration—both manifestations of her own anxiety and depression.

Then came April 2020, when the devastating impact of COVID-19 struck my family personally. My father tested positive for the virus during a time when much about it was still unknown. We were filled with uncertainty when he was rushed to the hospital due to breathing difficulties. After spending 21 days in the ICU, my father passed away, leaving us without the chance to say our goodbyes. The shock was, and still is, almost unbearable. To cope, I threw myself into work, attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy while my world crumbled around me. The booming real estate market provided a distraction as people were racing to find homes in the suburbs. As a real estate agent, I put on a smile, ensuring my clients and colleagues saw me as "okay." Shortly after my father's passing, my husband and I took on the emotionally daunting task of cleaning out his cluttered office. Describing that scene is nearly impossible. My father was a brilliant man, but he had a tendency to hoard and work amidst chaos. With the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, we were unsure if his office was safe. Wearing masks and gloves, we began trying to sort the piles. I remember feeling a sudden heat, causing me to remove my sweatshirt. Soon after, dizziness set in, and my vision blurred. I struggled to ask for help, but the words wouldn't come out. Looking around at the walls adorned with framed family pictures, showcasing my father's incredible achievements and the pride of our entire family and the friend's he loved, I was struck by the harsh reality of the moment. I bolted out of the office, onto the street, desperately tearing off the suffocating gloves. I was convinced I was having a heart attack. It was later revealed to be a panic attack—a traumatic experience that took time to recover from. It was then that I began therapy for the first time. In the months that followed, I began having more open conversations with my mother, but unfortunately, our discussions never delved deep enough, and I never fully heard about her own experiences with mental health. A year after my dad passed away, my mother was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, which she ultimately succumbed to. The heartbreak I experienced after was devastating.

These life experiences have taught me invaluable lessons:

Mental health should never be a source of shame—it should never be a taboo topic. It is not a sign of weakness; instead, it is an opportunity for growth and understanding. I openly discuss anxiety with my children, helping them comprehend their own emotions while fostering empathy for others.
Managing mental health is an ongoing journey, requiring diligence and self-awareness. It's like keeping a vigilant eye on the metaphorical monster in the closet, ensuring it doesn't catch us off guard.
Building a support system is vital. Surrounding ourselves with understanding and compassionate individuals can make all the difference.
Sometimes, those we perceive as the strongest are the ones battling the hardest behind closed doors.
Grief comes in unpredictable waves, often catching us off guard.
The sadness never truly fades, but with time, our ability to function improves.
Seeking help may be daunting, but it is the most crucial step towards healing and preserving our lives.
Life is unpredictable. It is important to cherish every single moment.
Losing those we love can be an isolating experience, as the depth of grief is difficult to express to those who haven't experienced it firsthand.

Despite losing my parents at a young age and knowing there are countless moments they won't be a part of, I am grateful for the milestones they did witness. And when the weight of it all becomes overwhelming, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have access to the additional support I need. I have witnessed the impact of mental health issues on those around me—some have been able to receive the treatment they needed to find their way back to wellness, while tragically, others have lost their lives to the battle. That is why this year's Color War for a Cause is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for mental health. We want to break down the barriers, eliminate the stigma, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need.

By participating in this celebration of life and embracing our inner child, we can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. Join us in our mission to create a world where mental health is understood, supported, and prioritized. Together, we can bring light and hope to those who need it most. The money raised will go towards Westchester Jewish Community Services - the largest provider of community-based licensed outpatient services. Donate, participate, and spread the word!

Color War For A Cause

By BAK

Color War For A Cause

Having Fun, Spreading Joy, and Giving Back!