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Suicide Prevention through Combat Sports
Introduction
I had the absolute pleasure of speaking to one of the most interesting people I have ever encountered, James Wright, whose life has had many hiccups while also having many fascinating stories to tell. James is the front runner of Kimonos for Kai, a suicide prevention organisation that aims at de-stigmatising mental health and helping to give adolescents someone to talk to, it’s a wonderful platform filled with a lot of love and care, while also having a story that had my heart-wrenching.
Based in San Diego, Kimonos for Kai has been a staple within the community, running for the past few years, stemming from a tragic event in October of 2014 the passing of James's own 12-year-old son Kai Wallace Wright. Upon speaking to James, he described Kai as being a kind, sweet kid full of life and putting smiles on everyone's faces, he was captain of the Rubik’s cube team and also had a love for jiu-jitsu following in his father's footsteps, who has taken up jiu-jitsu since 2007. Kai's passing hadn’t just affected his family's lives, but the community that surrounded them, with his funeral service having caught the attention of over a thousand people who had cherished Kai, which truly shows how many people Kai touched the hearts of.
James and Kai are pictured below:
James’s aim is to show those who are battling themselves that “you are not replaceable”, which is a beautiful message that he has attempted to get across to as many of those as he can, when asked why he does what he does, he replied “who doesn’t want to help kids”, “who doesn’t want to help those with mental health issues”, which shows the sort of man he is, showing what the organisation is about and how fondly they believe in their mission
Kimonos for Kai is a dedicated initiative committed to preserving Kai's legacy and preventing other adolescents from suffering the same tragic fate. They have achieved this mission through annual fundraisers that have captured the attention of many, raising crucial funds through generous donations. These funds are then channelled to provide essential support to those in need, offering counselling sessions and a range of mental health resources designed to enhance one's well-being. Through their unwavering efforts, Kimonos for Kai strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, ensuring that Kai's memory lives on as a glimmer of hope and support.
The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament that Kai was due to take part in was scheduled just three days after his tragic passing. In a touching tribute to his memory, the young athletes competing in the tournament paid their respects and commemorated his life. As a symbol of their profound loss, they decided to keep the first-place position unclaimed in his honour, ensuring that Kai's spirit will forever be remembered and cherished in their hearts.
Some more photos of Kai, if not for that day, I'm sure Kai would have continued to bring joy to everyone he touched. The world lost a precious soul, but it's also a reminder of the immense potential and innocence of childhood. Together we can create a brighter future, one where children facing difficulties find solace and support, ensuring that their smiles continue to light up the world.
Every child's life is a treasure, a promise of a better future, and a source of endless possibilities. We must create a world where no child feels alone or hopeless in their struggles. By investing in resources, education, and awareness, we can establish safe spaces and a network of caring individuals who are ready to listen and offer help. Our collective efforts can ensure that the light of hope never goes out for any child and that they grow into the happy, fulfilled individuals they were meant to be.
In honouring Kai's memory, we not only remember the child he was but also the children we can still protect. Let's make sure that every child has a place of comfort to rely on, and a future filled with hope and opportunities to smile, laugh, and thrive.
Partnerships
Here we have James partnered alongside Chris Cope who is a current board member of Kimonos for Kai. Chris Cope is a former welterweight mixed martial artist who was a competitor on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos, and has also competed for the UFC, appearing on big cards such as UFC 143: Diaz VS Condit, as well as fighting in Strikeforce. Being a former mixed martial artist, Chris Cope brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Kimonos for Kai board, making him a valuable asset to the organisation's mission of supporting mental health.
Chris came about the organisation through a simple Google search and just so happened to be directed to James, to which he now plays a pivotable role in the company. Chris isn't the only professional fighter that Kimonos for Kai has garnered support from, James is also in contact with many amazing fighters such as Dominick Cruz, Jeremy Stephens and André Galvão, while also appearing on Alberto Cranes podcast and hosting a fundraising event within Legacy Jiu-jitsu Academy.
Here is a picture of James on Alberto Crane's podcast:
Here's Jeremy Stephens alongside James's son John:
The Kimonos for Kai community is truly extraordinary, displaying an unwavering commitment to their shared cause. They unite through regular donations and innovative fundraisers across various social media platforms, driven by a common purpose: to protect families from the devastating effects of suicide. This pervasive issue is one they are determined to address, and they firmly believe that combat sports, provide a remarkable avenue for healing and personal growth.
What's particularly remarkable is how the world of MMA has embraced this cause. Many prominent figures within the sport have generously offered their assistance to Kimonos for Kai. These influential individuals recognise the potential of combat sports, to serve as a powerful tool for empowerment, rehabilitation, and personal transformation. Their support not only underscores the significance of the cause but also highlights the positive impact that this community is making.
Here's Domick Cruz on Kimonos for Kai and his message to those who need help:
Support
If you or someone you know is in need of support, it's vital to remember that reaching out to someone you trust is the initial and most crucial step. You are never alone in your struggles, and there are numerous compassionate individuals at your disposal who are eager to lend a listening ear and understand your emotions. Among the organisations at the forefront of offering this much-needed assistance, Kimonos for Kai stands out as a beacon of hope.
I feel a deeply personal connection to this cause, stemming from my own experiences with family members who have battled with the challenges of mental health and suicide. I know second-hand how daunting it can be to open up about such struggles, often leaving individuals with the heavy feeling that their voices are unheard. I want to reassure you that there are people out there who genuinely want to hear your voice and help. There are alternatives and pathways to recovery that are irreversible, and Kimonos for Kai is dedicated to providing those very options.
Their unwavering commitment includes being a listening ear and a source of support. They are here to ensure that your feelings and concerns are not only acknowledged but also addressed in a caring and understanding manner. Together with organisations like Kimonos for Kai, we can ensure that no one feels isolated or without hope when facing such challenging moments. Remember, there are people who care, who want to help, and who genuinely understand. You are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter tomorrow.