Badminton Tournament to Honor Late Brother, Support Youth Mental Health
MANILA, Philippines – Actor Elijah Canlas and his family are hosting the second annual JM canlas Badminton Cup this weekend, March 29-30, to raise funds for the KULIT foundation. The foundation, established in memory of Canlas’s younger brother JM, aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and provide support to adolescents.
KULIT Foundation: Turning Grief into Action
The KULIT (Kalinga, Unawa at Linang sa Isip at Taglay) Foundation was founded by the Canlas family in the wake of JM’s death in August 2023. JM, endearingly called “Kulit” by his family, struggled with his mental health.The foundation seeks to honor his memory by promoting mental health awareness through seminars,workshops,art therapy,and talks in schools.
Badminton: A Family Passion and JM’s Legacy
Badminton was chosen as the focal point of the fundraising efforts as it was JM’s passion. He was a varsity player at La Salle Green Hills with aspirations of competing at the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).The Canlas family regularly played badminton together, solidifying it as a shared passion and a lasting memory of JM.According to Elijah, JM was the best badminton player in the family.
Breaking the Stigma,Providing Support
The JM Canlas Badminton Cup aims to raise money for KULIT Foundation initiatives,which focus on mental health education and support for young peopel.The foundation plans to educate parents and their children alike, offering workshops, seminars and other resources. the goal is to create open conversations and provide crucial support to those struggling with mental well-being.
Family Turns Grief into Action: Launching Mental Health Initiatives After Loss
The Canlas family is channeling their grief into action, launching the JM Canlas Badminton Cup and the KULIT Foundation to promote mental health awareness and support. The initiatives were born from an unexpected family tragedy.
From Grief to Purpose: The Canlas Family’s Mission
Following a profound loss, the Canlas family decided to turn their personal grief into a force for good. ”The JM canlas Badminton Cup and the KULIT Foundation are what we’re doing to manage that grief,” a family member stated. Recognizing the urgent need for mental health support, they aim to help others and honor their loved one’s memory.
Addressing the Stigma: Mental Health as Healthcare
The KULIT Foundation seeks to address the stigma surrounding mental health, advocating for its recognition as an essential part of overall healthcare.The family emphasizes the importance of open conversations and accessible information, especially for younger generations grappling with mental health challenges.
Personal Well-being: Finding Strength in Creativity and Connection
The family finds solace in their work, notably in creative endeavors like filmmaking and music. They also underscore the importance of rest, prayer, and spending time with loved ones as crucial components of maintaining mental well-being.
A personal Journey: overcoming Stigma Through Sharing
Driven by personal experience with severe depression, one of the family members advocates for open dialog about mental health. Having been diagnosed at age 17 and undergoing treatment, they understand the stigma associated with mental health struggles and encourage others to seek help and share their stories. The Canlas family hopes that by sharing their experiences, they can create a safe space for others to seek support and understanding. “Talking helps,” they emphasize,urging individuals to connect with trusted friends,family,or mental health professionals.
Creating a Ripple Effect: Inspiring Others to Share Their Stories
Since launching their initiatives, the Canlas family has been approached by numerous individuals eager to share their own stories of mental health challenges.This outpouring of support reinforces their belief in the power of open dialogue and the importance of creating a community where individuals feel understood and supported.
Brother’s Legacy: Continuing a Mental Health Advocate’s Work
Grieving the loss of his brother, JM, Elijah is committed to honoring his memory by continuing JM’s work as a mental health advocate. JM, who tragically passed away, had a important impact on many lives by offering support and guidance to those struggling with their mental health.
From Personal Loss to Public Advocacy: A Brother’s Promise
Elijah emphasizes the importance of open conversations about mental health. By reducing stigma and fostering a supportive surroundings, more lives can be saved.Despite his own struggles,JM touched many lives,offering support to those battling mental health challenges.
Celebrating a Life of Helping Others
During JM’s wake, numerous individuals shared stories of how he had helped them through their mental health struggles. In his brother’s memory, Elijah wants to celebrate the positive impact JM had on others and hopes to continue this legacy of support and advocacy.
Keeping the Memory alive Through Action
For Elijah, honoring JM’s memory means carrying his presence in every aspect of his life. He feels that JM is still with him and that his memory will always be a driving force in his actions. Elijah dedicates his career, personal endeavors, and involvement in mental health organizations to JM.
elijah’s work ensures that JM’s legacy lives on, inspiring others to seek help and support, and fostering a more compassionate and understanding community when it comes to mental health.
What specific types of programs or services does the KULIT Foundation offer to adolescents struggling with mental health?
Badminton Tournament to Honor Late Brother, Support Youth Mental Health: Q&A
What is the JM Canlas Badminton Cup?
The JM Canlas Badminton Cup is an annual badminton tournament organized by actor Elijah Canlas and his family. It’s held to raise funds for the KULIT Foundation, which supports youth mental health in memory of Elijah’s late brother, JM Canlas.
what is the KULIT Foundation?
KULIT (Kalinga, Unawa at Linang sa Isip at Taglay) Foundation was established by the Canlas family after JM’s passing. It aims to raise awareness and provide support for adolescents struggling with mental health through seminars, workshops, art therapy, and talks in schools.
Why was badminton chosen for the fundraising event?
Badminton was JM’s passion. He was a varsity player and the best badminton player in the family, making it a fitting way to honor his memory and connect with his legacy.
How does the foundation plan to help?
The KULIT Foundation plans to educate parents and their children through workshops, seminars, and resources. The goal is to foster open communication about mental health and provide support to those in need.
What is the Canlas family’s message on mental health?
The Canlas family emphasizes the importance of open conversations,seeking professional help,and recognizing mental health as a crucial part of overall well-being. Thay share their personal journey to encourage others to share their stories and find support.
Where can people find more information or get help?
Encouraged by the Canlas family, individuals should connect with trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Resources and contact information for mental health support organizations can often be found online.
What is the ultimate goal of these initiatives?
The ultimate goal is to honor JM’s legacy by creating a more compassionate and understanding community around mental health, inspiring others to seek help and support.
Join the conversation, and remember that talking truly helps. Support the JM Canlas Badminton Cup and the KULIT Foundation to help make a difference in the lives of young people.