JOELLAH’s mEMORY

Desrene Mendes is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Hi, my name is Desrene Mendes. I am a 36-year-old mother, musician, and creative from the West Midlands. I am one of many who had the privilege of experiencing the beautiful heart, compassion, and vulnerable honesty of Joellah Olivia Williams, also known as JoJo.

In June this year (2024), we sadly lost JoJo after her battle with mental health. Joellah had one son, Emory-Jacob, who is 10 years old and such a beautiful soul. Emory continuously comes to my mind. I think of his life experiences so far as a young boy and the change in trajectory of his life, as well as his grandparents and guardians, who were a massive support to Joellah and continue to be a huge support to Emory in her absence.

As someone who has experienced my own mental health battles and has also had moments when I wanted to exit my own mind, I have great empathy and understanding of Joellah’s journey. It is very important to me and mutual friends to support her family in the present and future.

With that being said, we are organising a sponsored 10k walk on Saturday 12th October 2024 in Birmingham. You are encouraged to join in, sponsor someone who will be walking, and/or simply donate and share this Go Fund Me page. World Mental Health Day falls on a weekday, Thursday 10th October, hence the reason for choosing the 12th.

Half of the funds raised will go into a savings account for Emory that he can access when he turns 18. This will support him as he enters adulthood and provide him with the best possible starting point. The other half will go directly to his grandparents and guardians so they can provide an even better quality of life and fill the rest of Emory’s childhood with empowering memories. This can include therapy, hobbies, and whatever else his family deems appropriate.

The goal is to assist and support this young boy and his family in continuing to flourish following such trauma. Let’s help lighten the load and be the change we wish to see.