Pain has become purpose for one local woman who is building something she hopes will help others find support, understanding and a place to belong.

Jeanie Watkins founded Stand By Me 7539 after losing her son, Zaiden Mikel, to suicide last September and recognizing gaps in the support and resources available close to home. Created in his honor, the organization aims to provide mental health awareness, suicide prevention resources, grief support and opportunities for community connection.

The loss of Zaiden changed Watkins’ understanding of the challenges people can face when seeking help for mental health struggles and grief, particularly in rural communities.

“Losing him opened my eyes to the stigma surrounding mental health, the limited resources available in rural areas and the lack of year-round support for those experiencing grief in our community,” explained Watkins. “Too many people struggle to find the understanding, support and resources they need.”

Her own search for grief suppor…