My Story

My name is Lekeysha Simmons-Teal, and I aim to provide a resources through me and my family personal experience of losing my son. In memory of my son, Quadarrien Simmons, I wish to establish a safe space for you during your journey. I profoundly understand the impact of losing a part of oneself and the lasting changes it brings. I recognize the complexities of receiving condolences from individuals who have not experienced the grief of losing a child, as they may not fully comprehend the depth of such loss. I am familiar with the sudden shifts from feeling stable to experiencing overwhelming sorrow. 
Additionally, I understand the feelings of guilt that can accompany continuing life after the death of a child. The experience of bringing a life into the world only to have to bury that life is a devastating reality. It is my hope that through giving back to family, friends, and communities our healing journey and conversations will help us united as a force that we are never alone in grief or needs. Our giving as a family heals our heart and we want to thank you for being apart of our journey. If you know anyone who would like to join our community please share!

Programs and Activities:

Healing
– grief coaching, journaling workshops, support groups.


Outreach
– food drives, back-to-school, Christmas toy giveaways, "Put Away the Guns" awareness events.


Community – partnerships with local churches, schools, and counseling centers.


Advocacy – promote health, mental wellness, and gun-violence prevention.


Mission and Vision 

The QDS Foundation supports grieving parents and families through community connection, grief coaching, journaling, and acts of giving — providing a safe space for healing and hope after the loss of a child
World where every grieving parent knows they are not alone and can find strength through shared healing and compassion