David Spade Donates $100K To Mental Health Organization Following Sister-In-Law Kate’s Death
David Spade is putting his money where his mouth is. The actor donated for a cause close to his heart.
Making A Difference
Spade is honoring his late sister-in-law, Kate Spade, who died by suicide earlier this month.
The famous fashion designer's death came shortly before another high-profile suicide, as celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain also took his own life on June 8.
According to PEOPLE, the actor and comedian made a sizeable donation of $100,000 to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
"More people suffer from mental health issues than we may realize but no one should ever feel ashamed to reach out for support," said Spade in a statement.
He went on to encourage those suffering, or who know anyone who may be at risk, to contact the relevant people, or to go to NAMI's website for assistance.
NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States. Their mission is to build better lives for millions of people suffering or dealing with mental illness nationwide, via educational programs and support groups.
Battling With Demons
Iconic designer Kate Spade was discovered unresponsive by a housekeeper, in her Manhattan apartment, on June 5. She was subsequently found to have died by suicide.
Her estranged husband Andy Spade, brother to comedian David and father of their teenage daughter, Frances Beatrix, revealed that on the same day that Kate had been in treatment for her mental health issues.
"Kate suffered from depression and anxiety for many years. She was actively seeking help and working closely with her doctors to treat her disease... We were in touch with her the night before and she sounded happy," he said in a statement.
Spade confirmed there was no indication that his wife, whom he quietly separated from just under a year before, was about to take her own life. Friends and family further confirmed there were no signs Kate was struggling so much.
David Spade took to Twitter, following news of her passing, to share a photo of the late designer looking happy at his book signing. He also posted a pic on Instagram of the two of them during Christmas one year, noting how funny his sister-in-law was, and how easily she could make people laugh.
He didn't post about his donation to NAMI on social media. His representative quietly confirmed it to the press alongside his short statement.
