Turning Grief into Action: Margate Family Honors Son with Kindness for Mental Health

In a heartfelt tribute to their late son, a family from Margate is channeling their grief into a mission of kindness and support for young people grappling with mental health issues. Following the tragic death of 15-year-old Stefan Kluibenschadl in 2022, his parents, Tristan and Claire Kluibenschadl, have taken significant steps to honor his memory through the establishment of a charity named Stak, which stands for Stefan's Acts of Kindness. On Tuesday, the Kluibenschadl family plans to host a special event in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day. This occasion not only serves as a reminder of the critical issues surrounding mental health, but also as a platform for promoting awareness and support for neuro-divergent youth, particularly those with autism and ADHD—communities that Stefan was particularly passionate about. "Stefan was a very kind boy who had a unique ability to connect with those who felt isolated," Tristan shared. "He would often go out of his way to make others feel included. It felt natural for us to carry forward his legacy in this manner, leveraging his kindness as a guiding principle for our work." Stak aims to provide resources, support, and a sense of belonging for young people who might feel overlooked or marginalized. By focusing on kindness and inclusion, the Kluibenschadl family hopes to create a nurturing environment that can help young people navigate the challenges of mental health, especially in a world where their struggles can often go unseen. The event on World Suicide Prevention Day will encompass various activities designed to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote open conversations about the importance of kindness and understanding. It will also serve as a gathering for community members, encouraging them to share their experiences and support one another. As the Kluibenschadl family embarks on this meaningful journey, they invite others in the community to join them in honoring Stefan’s legacy. They believe that through their collective efforts, they can foster an environment where young people feel safe, valued, and understood—ensuring that no one has to face their battles alone. In a society that often stigmatizes conversations about mental health, the Kluibenschadls' initiative stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of kindness. By creating spaces for connection and understanding, they hope to inspire others to embrace the values that Stefan embodied during his life. Their mission is not only a tribute but a beacon of hope for a future where every young person knows they are seen and supported.