Lael Summer's Legacy Lives On: Mother Founds The Lael Project for Mental Health Awareness
Singer Lael Summer, daughter of Marla Maples, passed away in 2017 at just 25. Her mother later established The Lael Project to promote discussions on suicide and mental health, inspired by Lael's openness about her struggles.
Lael Summer, known for her pop/soul music, battled depression, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts since her teens. Tragically, she died by suicide in 2017. Prior to her death, she had attempted suicide but survived.
Marla Maples, Lael's mother, founded The Lael Project in 2020 to encourage open conversations about suicide and mental illness. The foundation, with Samuel Hertz managing its musical aspect, released a posthumous remix of Lael's cover of 'Do What You Want, Be What You Are' in 2022 for Suicide Awareness Month. Marla emphasizes the importance of talking about suicidal thoughts and showing compassion to those struggling with mental health issues.
Lael Summer's life was marked by her courage to openly discuss her mental health struggles through her music. Her mother, Marla Maples, continues her legacy through The Lael Project, encouraging conversations about suicide and mental health to support those in need.