Melissa and Steven Edell spent nearly 11 months searching for a way to turn the worst day of their lives into something that might save another family from the same grief. On Aug. 15, they'll see that effort take its first public step.
The Upper Arlington couple launched the Carter Edell Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit aimed at reducing youth suicide through education and policy change inside schools. The foundation's inaugural event, the Forward for Hope 5K, begins at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at Thompson Park, the day before what would have been their son Carter's 15th birthday.
Carter Edell, 14, an eighth grader at Hastings Middle School who wore football jersey No. 34 and played in the marching band, died by suicide on Sept. 23, 2025.
A mission rooted in what went wrong
The foundation's goal is specific: train the adults who interact with students every day. Steven Edell told ABC6 the aim is "to identify the gaps in education that adults, who are with our children on a daily basis, are receiving and see where we can make changes in those spaces."
According to the foundation's website, the nonprofit targets teachers, administrators, counselors, nurses and coaches, pushing them to identify warning signs, intervene and connect students to support. The Edells are also advocating for stronger district policies and state laws around parent notification when a child is in distress at school.
In a February 2026 interview with ABC6, Melissa Edell described the communication gap she believes existed at Hastings the day Carter died: "We rely on the people at school to be the eyes and the ears and be the one to say hey, Carter is visibly upset, you might want to come get him."
That same concern drives the foundation today. Melissa Edell said in the Aug. 13 ABC6 report that Upper Arlington has some good programs for students but wants clearer guidance for adults in the building on who to call and who to notify when a student is struggling.
The district's response
A UA Schools spokesperson said the district has been advertising the 5K through posters and building newsletters. Several staff members are planning to participate, though the district has no official role in the event.
The timing is deliberate. Saturday, Aug. 15, marks the first full weekend Upper Arlington Schools are back in session for the 2026-27 school year. Steven Edell said the start of school brings added stressors for students, making it the right moment to begin the conversation.
Community rallying
The Edells have been building support across Upper Arlington. The UA water polo team invited the family to a recent cornhole tournament to spread awareness about the foundation and suicide prevention. The Edells also visited the Upper Arlington farmers market to talk with neighbors about the 5K.
Thompson Park holds personal meaning for the family. They live nearby and spent time biking and having picnics there with their children, including Carter and his 11-year-old sister.
The event on Saturday, Aug. 15, includes four options: an in-person 5K run/walk, a virtual 5K, Carter's Kids Dash and a 1-mile run/walk. Registration is available at runsignup.com.
Steven Edell said he hopes the foundation can help make conversations about suicide less frightening for families and that talking openly can reduce the chances of losing another child.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
