*Please read this section if you are in a place to hear a story sharing deeply about suicide and loss.
Celebrated author, gold medal Olympian, famous chef, and dog whisperer - Andrew Ngeseyan is none of these! He is, however, a dad, partner, son, brother, cousin, confident, coach and friend to many. A lover of nature and wildlife conservation, his passions rise from his heritage as a Maasai.
"In 2023, life threw me a curveball he never saw coming—the loss of my sister, Mamus Sandra, to suicide. It was a gut-wrenching moment that broke me open, but it also set me on a path to rediscover connection, empathy, and what it means to be human. Mamus was passionate about life, finding beauty in the world's colors through her art, fabrics, and soap-making. She could spot the silver lining in the darkest cloud and celebrated the small joys—often with a glass of champagne. Yet, beneath her vibrant exterior, she battled demons in silence, a reminder that mental health struggles are often invisible.
From this pain, I've learned that growth comes through connection. Here are five key lessons I now carry:
Stay connected—a simple "how are you?" can mean the world.
Educate yourself—understanding mental health signs can save lives.
Encourage professional help—therapy and support make a difference.
Be kind and empathetic—you never know someone's full story.
Listen to your spirit—trust your instincts when something feels off.
This isn't just my story—it's ours. We all face battles, but together, we can grow through them. In memory of Sandra, let's pledge to be kinder, listen a little deeper, and never leave anyone feeling alone."
If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).