Alabama Family Shares Daughter’s Story to Raise Awareness About Youth Mental Health
A Young Life Remembered
The loss of a child is a heartbreak no family is ever prepared to face. For one Alabama family, that grief has become a mission to raise awareness about youth mental health and the importance of recognizing warning signs early.
Lindsey Mae Swan, a 12-year-old from Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on February 17, 2026. Her loved ones are now speaking publicly in hopes that sharing her story may help protect other children.
Affectionately known as “Sweet Pea” and “Stitch,” Lindsey is remembered as bright, compassionate, and fiercely loyal to those she cared about.
A Defender of Her Friends
Lindsey was known for standing up for others, especially classmates who felt too intimidated to speak for themselves.
“She stuck up for others that were afraid to speak up for themselves, and dared anyone to push around her friends or her siblings,” her mother, Brittany Booth, told WAFF.
Her courage and empathy made her someone others relied on.
Even at a young age, she demonstrated a strong sense of fairness and protection toward those she loved.
Full of Talent and Determination
Lindsey attended Mountain Gap Middle School, where she excelled academically and participated in several extracurricular activities.
She was a choir member and part of the Girls Engaged in Math and Science (GEMS) Team, reflecting both her creative and analytical interests.
She also loved performing and was rehearsing for a role in The Lion King with Around The Curtain children’s theater.
Outside of school, Lindsey enjoyed volleyball, gymnastics, dancing, hiking, spending time at the beach, and caring for animals.
Her schedule was filled with activities that reflected her vibrant spirit and curiosity.
Challenges Beneath the Surface
Despite her many interests and accomplishments, Lindsey faced emotional challenges.
Her father, Joseph Laughery, passed away four years ago, a loss that deeply affected her.
“That brought on a lot of heartache for her,” Brittany said.
In addition to grief, Lindsey experienced bullying at school.
“Kids were mocking her and weaponizing the fact that her father had passed away and it was infuriating,” Brittany said.
The combination of personal loss and peer cruelty created emotional strain that was not always visible to others.
A Source of Comfort to Her Family
Lindsey’s mother described her as someone who was deeply attuned to the emotions of those around her.
“I was smiling through my stress and sorrows, but she knew when I was feeling down and would be my biggest comfort,” Brittany said.
Her ability to sense when others were struggling made her a steady presence in her family’s life.
That compassion remains one of the qualities her loved ones remember most.
A Message That Now Serves as a Warning
In the months before her passing, Lindsey had shared concerning thoughts with friends.
Her mother believes that earlier intervention might have changed the outcome.
“If they would have told somebody it would’ve very well saved her life,” Brittany said.
In her final journal entry, Lindsey left words that her family now shares publicly in hopes of encouraging awareness.
“It’s too late for me. Please talk to someone even if they act or look OK. They might make it because of you.”
Her message underscores the importance of checking in with others, even when they appear outwardly fine.
The Importance of Speaking Up
Lindsey’s stepfather, Jason Booth, emphasized the need for open conversations about mental health, especially among young people.
“There’s so much shame associated with it that people are afraid to come forward and be open about it. It may seem young, but we absolutely need to be having these conversations. If you see something, say something.”
He believes that reducing stigma and encouraging dialogue can make a meaningful difference.
A Broader Mental Health Concern
Lindsey’s story reflects a wider challenge facing families across the country.
According to the Alabama Department of Health, Alabama ranks eighth in the nation for teen suicide.
Nearly one in 12 high school students in the state report having attempted suicide.
The risk is even higher among young LGBTQ individuals.
National figures also highlight the urgency of youth mental health support.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 2.6 million teens experienced suicidal thoughts in 2024.
More than 49,000 lives were lost to suicide in the United States in 2023, making it one of the leading causes of death nationwide.
Mental health professionals consistently emphasize that talking openly about emotional struggles can reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.
Community Support and Ongoing Efforts
In the aftermath of their loss, Lindsey’s family established a GoFundMe to assist during this difficult period.
Beyond financial support, they are focused on spreading awareness about early warning signs and the importance of intervention.
They hope Lindsey’s story will encourage parents, teachers, and students to take concerns seriously and to speak up when something feels wrong.
A Legacy of Compassion
Lindsey Mae Swan’s life, though brief, left a lasting impression on her family, friends, and community.
She is remembered for her kindness, bravery, and unwavering loyalty.
Her final words now serve as a reminder that awareness and action can help protect vulnerable young people.
Her family hopes that by sharing her story, other children will receive the support they need before it is too late.
Help Is Available
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available 24 hours a day.
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for confidential assistance.
Lindsey’s story is heartbreaking, but her message encourages vigilance, compassion, and connection.
Rest in Peace, Lindsey.