My journey into entrepreneurship began long before Stay Another Day™ was founded. Sewing was a therapeutic outlet I learned from my grandmother, which led me to create Mackenzie Paige- a line of handmade hair accessories. When the Covid 19 Pandemic hit, I sewed thousands of face masks to keep my mind busy. This was a big factor in the growth of Mackenzie Paige, and in early 2022, I launched a mental health awareness line to share my own struggles and encourage others to seek help.
Growing up, I was very passionate about softball. I lived out my childhood dreams of playing at the collegiate level, helping my school bring home its 7th consecutive National Title. Unfortunately, in April of 2022, my career ended after taking a line drive to my face during a game. This chapter closing for me was difficult to accept, but it led me to discover my bigger purpose: helping break the stigma surrounding mental health.
It was during my recovery from this injury that I realized “Stay Another Day” could stand for “SAD” - an emotion people don’t typically showcase. This brand would allow us to wear our hearts on our sleeve and I instantly fell in love with this concept, motivating me to grow the mental health awareness line on Mackenzie Paige into Stay Another Day™ Ltd.
My mental health journey started at a young age. During high school, I struggled with depression and anxiety. I masked my emotions and tried my hardest to hide this part of me. I felt alone, afraid, and not sure how to tell people I was struggling. Stay Another Day were the three words I would silently tell myself over and over, trying to take things one day at a time.
My darkest period came during my time playing college softball. I struggled silently, withdrawing from social interactions, neglecting my physical health, and making poor choices. After trying to push these emotions away for so long, the suicidal ideations came back around. I contemplated ending my life several times in High School, but this time felt different. People noticed, yet I still felt trapped and unsure of where to turn. It wasn’t until I reached out for professional help and admitted myself to the hospital that I began the journey towards recovery. I felt entirely alone in my struggle until this experience. This week marked the turning point in my life, helping me realize that vulnerability is beautiful.
My heart breaks for the younger version of myself who struggled with the uncomfortable silence surrounding mental health, not knowing how to ask for help. I would often spend the entire day trying to find one reason or sign to keep going. I wanted to build something that would’ve helped this version of myself, and anyone who faces a similar struggle. Through wearing these shirts, we are able to be a walking billboard advocating for mental health, encouraging others to keep going, and giving them a sign to stay. By advocating for mental health through clothing, we are providing a tool to make hard conversations a little bit easier.
Now, I’m committed to sharing my story and encouraging others to do the same. I want to remind everyone that their mental health struggles do not define them, and that there is so much strength within asking for help. The phrase Stay Another Day became my mantra during my darkest days, a reminder to take things one day at a time. I hope these three words can bring you, and others, the same comfort and strength they’ve given me.
It's okay to be SAD.
By partnering with your company, team, or organization, we can amplify the conversations around mental health, reduce stigma, and ensure more people know they're not alone. Placing a bulk order demonstrates your commitment to mental health awareness and helps spread this important message. We offer customization options and have proudly collaborated with various organizations to promote meaningful discussions about mental well-being. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
