A Life full of energy and love
Kelly was the life and soul of every room she entered. Always smiling, always caring, and always ready to help anyone who needed her. She had a huge heart, an infectious laugh and an energy that made everyone around her feel valued and uplifted.
She loved her family and friends deeply and threw herself into life, whether that meant playing sport, exploring new places, or simply making memories with the people she loved most.
A passion for sport and community
From a young age, Kelly’s passion for sport shone through. She played football, hockey and cricket for local teams and proudly represented Northamptonshire County in cricket until the age of 17. At just 17, she became a qualified cricket coach, giving her time to coach and manage children’s teams, which was something she truly loved.
A hidden struggle
Kelly was the last person you’d ever imagine struggling with her mental wellbeing. But on 18th December 2018, at just 24 years old, after a short battle with anxiety and depression, Kelly tragically took her own life.
The shock and sadness of losing her left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
“It’s like a pebble dropped in a pond, the ripples continue to reach far and wide, touching countless lives beyond her family and closest friends”
A legacy of hope
From that heartbreak, Kelly’s legacy was born. We Mind & Kelly matters – now known as Kelly’s Heroes was founded in her memory. A charity dedicated to helping others, look after their mental health and know they are never alone.
Our mission is simple: to make talking about mental health something we all feel comfortable doing. No one should ever feel isolated, ashamed or afraid to reach out.
By listening, by talking, and by being there for one another, we can make a difference. That’s what Kelly would have wanted, and it’s what we’ll continue to do, every day, in her name.
Kelly Hewitt 11th May 1994 - 18th December 2018
Why it's important
Our charity has been driven by the profound loss of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend, who was taken from us prematurely after her struggles with mental health. No-one should ever have to deal with this.
Understanding the depths of mental health challenges requires first hand experience or close proximity to those affected. Unfortunately, stigma often cloaks these struggles, leaving many to endure their pain silently.
Our mission is to illuminate this issue, raising awareness and working to prevent suicide.
Everyone has a role in supporting those around them who may be challenged by poor mental health. By recognising warning signs and offering a compassionate ear or kind words, we can potentially save lives.
The outpouring of support we’ve received from the outset has been nothing short of remarkable. Kelly’s impact on countless lives endures, and while she may no longer be with us physically, this charity stands as her enduring legacy.
