This fund serves as a poignant tribute and lasting legacy to their beloved daughter, Allison McDowell, who lost her struggle with depression in April 2023.
“Allison was a gifted and savvy techie who captured incredible images with her cameras, adopted unwanted dogs into a loving home, explored back roads on her motorcycles, had an eye for fast sports cars, and above all, pursued knowledge with an unquenchable thirst. The love and support from family and friends weren’t enough to enable Allison to overcome the all consuming pain of depression and society’s non-acceptance of her living her authentic life,” shared her parents, Phil and Betty. “Her struggle with depression and identity underscores the urgent need for increased support and resources for individuals facing similar challenges. Establishing this fund allows us to honor Allison’s memory by making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Allison’s family – parents, sisters Heather Francis and Karin McDowell and their families and wife Kristen McDowell – welcomes all to join them in contributing to the Allison McDowell Fund for Mental Health Support fund and its mission to foster resilience, hope, and healing within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community face disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, often stemming from societal stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to inclusive and affirming support services. In Allison’s case, when the need became critical enough to seek admittance to a residential treatment facility for her depression, there simply weren’t any beds available. Additionally, insurance was inadequate to cover the cost of enough sessions with a therapist that would address her illness.
The bench, shown both above and below, was photographed by Allison, and was a discovery on one of her Colorado explorations. She found it to be a place of reflection, peace, and security. Weeks later, Allison was there when her life ended – on the bench that meant so much to her.
