In September 2024, newlyweds Isabel and Christopher Coles returned from their honeymoon at the Sea.Hear.Now music festival in New Jersey. Just a day later, Christopher, a 28-year-old Army veteran, died by suicide. Isabel, now 32, has since become an advocate for mental health awareness, sharing their story to highlight the often unseen struggles individuals may face.
A Joyful Beginning
Isabel and Christopher met via a dating app and quickly formed a deep connection. After 18 months together, they married in a courthouse ceremony and planned a larger celebration for the following May. Their honeymoon was filled with happiness, dancing, and shared dreams for the future. Isabel recalls, “We were so insanely happy and in love.”
An Unexpected Tragedy
Upon returning home, Isabel noticed subtle changes in Christopher’s behavior. He stayed up all night updating their wedding website and seemed distant the next morning. When she inquired about his mood, he responded with “nothing.” Later that day, Christopher left their home and was found dead in the woods by his father. Isabel was left in shock, stating, “There were no signs. It did take me really off guard.”
Coping with Grief and Guilt
In the months following Christopher’s death, Isabel grappled with immense grief and self-blame. She questioned whether she had missed any signs of his internal struggles. Adding to her heartache, Isabel received a bouquet of flowers on Valentine’s Day, which Christopher had pre-ordered before his death. This unexpected gesture served as a poignant reminder of their love and the life they had planned together.
Facing Public Scrutiny
Isabel chose to share her story publicly, aiming to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Her viral video garnered nearly 40 million views, eliciting both support and criticism. Some online commenters unjustly blamed her for Christopher’s death, exacerbating her pain. Despite this, Isabel remains steadfast in her mission to shed light on the silent battles many face.
Advocacy Through Action
Determined to honor Christopher’s memory and support others, Isabel is training to run the Chicago Marathon in October 2025. She aims to raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), an organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Isabel emphasizes the importance of recognizing that even those who appear successful and happy may be struggling internally.
Conclusion
Isabel Coles’s journey from newlywed bliss to unimaginable loss underscores the critical need for open conversations about mental health. Her advocacy serves as a powerful reminder that behind smiles, there can be hidden pain. By sharing her story and supporting suicide prevention efforts, Isabel hopes to encourage others to seek help and foster a more compassionate and understanding society. In addition to her marathon training, Isabel continues to speak out on podcasts, social media, and public panels to educate others about mental health and suicide prevention. She stresses the importance of checking in with loved ones, even when everything appears fine on the surface. Through vulnerability and strength, Isabel transforms her grief into purpose—helping others feel less alone and potentially saving lives by encouraging open, compassionate dialogue about mental health struggles.
