An Oak Grove woman transformed something dark into a beautiful creation.
In 2015, Linda Lucas experienced the devastating loss of her 14-year-old grandson to suicide. Ever since, she has been determined to find healthy outlets for her depression and grief. One of her chosen methods is gardening, which has proven to be a source of solace and healing for her.
Lucas took to the Oak Grove community Facebook page and posed a heartfelt question to families who have experienced the loss of a child due to suicide or a fentanyl overdose. He asked them to share the color of a flower that they would like to be associated with their child in a special memorial garden that Lucas plans to create.
Lucas expressed his deep sorrow and inability to provide a specific number when asked about the children lost in Oak Grove. He emphasized the devastating feeling of receiving such a call, knowing that a member of his family had been lost. Despite the pain, Lucas finds solace and a sense of escape by creating something beautiful.
Lucas mentioned that she took the initiative to plant flowers for a woman who resided in an apartment and was unable to do so herself. Additionally, she actively distributed fliers to raise awareness about fentanyl in the community.
“I pour all of my energy into creating something wonderful and beautiful. It’s just a part of who I am,” Lucas expressed passionately. “There is already so much hate in this world, and it’s time to bring about a change. Love is what the world needs to thrive. Suicide and hate are like diseases that we must eliminate. It’s crucial. Unfortunately, my family has experienced the devastating impact of losing loved ones.”
Lucas’s grandson would have turned 23 on April 15th.
If you or someone you know is facing challenges with mental health concerns or experiencing thoughts and actions related to suicide, you can reach out for help by texting or calling the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.