Mental illness, philanthropy, and golf!

My love for Jayden and the Gillespie family led me here. JTGF’s mission and commitment to supporting our youth will keep me here. As an educator for over 25 years, I see how the disparities in access to treatment and support impact my students and families. I’m grateful for the efforts to increase awareness and am inspired to lend my support.

Dr Gillespie presented at our Black Employees Business Resource Group meeting and spoke on getting more involved in our communites mental health. I'd love to volunteer in our community

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Jayden and I were inseparable throughout elementary school—we were best friends in every sense of the word. We spent almost every day together, whether it was playing outside, laughing over inside jokes, or just enjoying each other’s company. He had the kindest heart and the most genuine spirit, always looking out for others and making sure everyone around him felt included and cared for. No matter what we were doing, he had a way of making everything more fun and meaningful. He was truly one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known, and his friendship meant the world to me.

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Jayden was my best friend growing up in elementary and middle school. We fell out of contact through high school and I learned of the loss of him just recently. I’m am so deeply saddened

Mental illness have also impacted my family.. I know the importance of early diagnosis and treatment .

Hello Gillespie family,
My name is Trinity VanHorn and I am 23 years old. I am a San Diego native currently working for Sharp Healthcare and completing my 3rd year at San Diego State University as a Finance major. I came across the article on LinkedIn regarding the passing of your son Jayden which I am greatly sorry about. He seemed like a wonderful and ambitious student and son that only those who truly knew him would cherish so much. I would like the opportunity if granted to join your foundation as well, as I can relate to Jayden in such way. From the age 12 to the age 20, I dealt with Suicidal Ideation and Depression and did not know if I would make it to age 21. I dealt with mental health concerns for nearly half of the portion of my life and truly did not think much of life going into 2021 and 2022. In June of 2022, I became a donor for Sharp Mesa Vista’s BH-ICU as Mental Health is a topic that holds a great amount of value to my life. Especially as one who works in the Emergency Room & Labor/Delivery while having to face it in the perspective of our patients that come in. I know this might not mean much to you all but I am truly proud of everything Jayden accomplished within his time of being here. As a student and woman of color, we often lack the recognition of our accomplishments and success due to the color of our skin but I saw that he attended LMU and it instantly brought a smile to my face. I hope to have the opportunity to join the JTG Foundation and continue to ongoing legacy of Jayden. I hope you all have an amazing week.