Her Legacy: Katie's Way

     "Katie was a daughter, sister, twin, friend.  Katie was intelligent, kind, funny and beautiful through and through.  She was self-disciplined and athletic, and a Division 1 athlete in Rowing for the University of Kansas for two years. 

     Katie enjoyed riding her bike and rode in Bike Across Kansas in 2010.  She loved nature, being outdoors, catch and release fishing, and all animals.

     She was creative, spontaneous, and one of the most genuinely funny people you would ever meet.  Katie loved music and taught herself to play guitar.  We have hours and hours of DVD productions that she spontaneously created that we treasure and make us laugh until we cry. 

     Most of all, Katie loved and was loved by many.  Katie also suffered from depression and anxiety.  She was our Katie, and to us she was special: but she could be anyone.  She could be your sister, your friend, the person next to you in class.  People should never be afraid to ask, 'how are you, really?  How can I help?' 

     We have to remove the stigma that mental health issues are something to be ashamed of.  We need to begin to understand that mental health care is just as important as physical health care. 

     Mental health illnesses are no different than diabetes or cancer.  We need to begin the conversation.  Don't be afraid to ask."

-LeAnn Mathis