Alex’s Story
In 2021 we lost our daughter, Alex, to physical illnesses she had battled over several years. Music was Alex’s passion. She was most happy when singing, playing her guitar and piano and performing with choruses such as the Cleveland Orchestra Blossom Festival Chorus, Cleveland State Chorus, and the Beaumont School Voices of Harmony. Alex also had a passion for animals and especially those in need. She often volunteered at the Geauga County Rescue Village.
Unfortunately, by early adolescence, Alex suffered physical and behavioral health challenges that severely interfered with her ability to enjoy her passions – and life in general. As a teenager, Alex struggled with managing her emotions, a challenge faced by many teens and young adults. This led to some self-harm and self-threatening behaviors.
o After trying several different therapies and treatments without much luck, we discovered Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT focuses on helping people learn how to regulate their behaviors and emotions and learn to change their lives. Alex was introduced to DBT at a treatment center where she met April Sobieralski who became her primary therapist (lakewestdbtcenter.com). Alex’s way of confronting her challenges was through courage, determination, and a witty sense of humor. With April’s help, Alex learned to regulate her emotions and was successfully building the life she wanted and would enjoy.
While searching for the right treatment for Alex, we discovered that there were far more young people than we had ever imagined experiencing similar issues. Moreover, we learned that many families could not afford treatment for these teens, and often insurance would not cover it.
We wanted to do something to help others receive the life-changing support Alex and our family received. Inspired by Alex’s way of courage and kindness to those in need, we established the Alex’s Way Charity. Our hope is that troubled youth will follow Alex’s way to recovery.
Our Mission
Alex’s Way provides educational resources and financial support to make effective therapy available for teens and young adults at risk of self-harm or other behavior concerns.
Our purpose is to offer hope and support to adolescents and their families struggling with serious behavioral health issues.
Alex’s Way was established in memory of Alexandra Wuertz (Alex) who passed away at the age of 22 in 2021.
Our Vision
– All teens and young adults are equipped to navigate behavioral health challenges and to seek help, and are emotionally prepared to enter adulthood and fulfill their potential.
– Every high school and college has a comprehensive system that supports student emotional health and understands how to deal with students with behavioral health issues.
– Our communities support the emotional well-being and behavioral health of teens and young adults.
– Behavioral health is recognized as part of general health and wellness and not associated with shame, secrecy, or prejudice.
Our Team
Board of Directors:
Bill Wuertz, President
Mikhail Wuertz, Treasurer
Halle Gavin, Secretary
Patrick Bacon
Melissa Dials
Molly Rochester
Briana Wuertz
Executive Director:
Maribeth Wuertz
