A Personal Reflection on 988 Day
On 988 Day, our founder, Janae Banks, shares her personal story of how calling the crisis hotline saved her life years ago while living in New York City. What began as a desperate moment in front of Central Park turned into the start of her mental health journey—thanks to the compassion, resources, and hope offered through that lifeline. This blog is a raw reflection on why 988 matters, how it continues to save lives, and why Sparkle of Hope Cleaning Foundation is committed to supporting those experiencing depression and mental health struggles.
Janae Banks
9/8/20252 min read
Today is 988 Day, and I can’t let it pass without sharing something deeply personal with you.
Years ago, when I lived in New York City, I found myself at one of the lowest points of my life. I was standing right in front of Central Park, suicidal thoughts running through my mind, feeling completely defeated and ready to give up. I thought I had no options left.
But in that moment, I reached out to the crisis hotline. On the other end was a voice filled with compassion. She didn’t judge me. She didn’t dismiss me. She just stayed with me. She made me feel like I wasn’t crazy for struggling the way I was. She insisted on staying on the phone as I flagged down a cab, and before I knew it, a mobile crisis van was there with a social worker and a psychiatrist.
They sat with me, they listened, they helped me. They gave me medicine to stabilize me, connected me to a therapist, and introduced me to a new psychiatrist. That one call began my mental health journey.
When I reflect on that day, I think about all that’s happened since then—the beautiful moments I’ve had, the people I’ve met, the people I’ve helped, and the people who have helped me. None of that would have been possible if I hadn’t picked up the phone and called.
That’s why 988 is so important. It’s not just a number. It’s a lifeline. It’s someone on the other end who won’t let you face the darkness alone.
At Sparkle of Hope Cleaning Foundation, the work we do comes from that same place. I know what it feels like to be buried under the weight of depression. I know what it feels like to think you’re too far gone. And I also know what it feels like to be lifted up by people who care. That’s why we exist—to remind people that help and hope are real.
So on this 988 Day, I want to encourage you: Save the number. Share it. Talk about it. You never know whose life it might save—just like it saved mine.
With love and hope,
Janae Banks
Founder, Sparkle of Hope Cleaning Foundation
