Tes Cruz: From Loss to Mental Health Advocacy & Hope

by | Aug 11, 2025 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope

Tes Cruz lost her husband but found purpose as a mental health advocate. In this powerful episode, she shares her journey through grief and her mission to raise awareness, fight stigma, and bring hope to others. Her story reminds us that out of profound loss can come resilience, healing, and the courage to help others.

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Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor, and Mental Health Coach.

Books

The Stories of HOPE Australia book series is a powerful collection of real-life stories that celebrate resilience, courage, and triumph over adversity. Each volume features individuals who have faced life’s most difficult challenges—trauma, loss, mental health struggles—and come through with messages of strength and hope. These books aren’t just inspiring; they’re a reminder that healing is possible and that we’re never alone in our battles.

Counselling Services

Kerrie Atherton offers one-on-one counselling to support those navigating trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. With her extensive background in professional counselling and lived experience, Kerrie provides a compassionate, non-judgmental space to process pain and begin healing. Her work is centered around empowering clients to find hope, clarity, and renewed purpose in their lives.

Events

Stories of HOPE live and online events are gatherings where voices are elevated and stories come to life. These events provide a platform for individuals to share their journeys in person, creating unforgettable moments of connection, strength, and vulnerability. Hosted by Kerrie Atherton, they often feature guest speakers, music, book signings, and open-hearted conversations designed to uplift and inspire every attendee.

Special Thanks To:

Tes Cruz’s world was shattered when she lost her husband—a devastating loss that brought grief, isolation, and overwhelming pain. In the depths of her struggle, she faced the crushing weight of mental health challenges that many experience but few speak about openly. Yet from this heartbreak, Tes discovered her mission: to become a voice and an advocate for mental health.

In this deeply moving episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Tes shares her personal journey of grief and the process of rebuilding life after loss. She opens up about the stigma around mental health, especially in the wake of tragedy, and why she chose to transform her suffering into service.

Tes now dedicates her life to helping others who are navigating mental health struggles. By speaking publicly and advocating for change, she shines a light on the importance of awareness, compassion, and accessible support. Her courage not only honors her late husband but also inspires countless others to seek help and know they are not alone.

Her story demonstrates the power of turning pain into purpose. Tes Cruz reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can be reborn—not by ignoring grief, but by allowing it to fuel a mission of healing.

This episode is a tribute to resilience and the human capacity to rise from loss with renewed determination to help others find the light.