Sammy Project encourages mental health discussion

Art show at local libraries

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In the aftermath of her son’s death, Whitney Yeager went back to her roots as a professional photographer to create an exhibit to honor her son and destigmatize mental health.

Society often sees mental illness as something that needs to be hidden. People might think it’s a weakness or feel ashamed of it.

Yeager aims to challenge the stigma around mental illness with her traveling exhibition, e Sammy Project.

On April 3, 2021, Whitney’s son, Samuel - who Whitney calls Sammy - was shot and killed by Douglas County Police during a psychotic episode triggered by THC.

“Losing my rstborn child, and only son, has been the greatest heartbreak of my life,” said Yeager. “ ere will never be a deeper pain to compare it to. At the same time, it has been the most transformative experience I’ve ever had.”

To honor her son, Yeager began to destigmatize mental illness through personal portraits and stories.

“People should feel comfortable being vulnerable,” said Yeager. “People should feel comfortable talking about depression or any kind of mental health struggle