Finding Hope in Connection: A Conversation with Borrow My Angel
As we prepare to bring Every Brilliant Thing to our stage, we’re honored to partner with Borrow My Angel, a Springfield organization that shares our commitment to hope and connection. This deeply moving play tells the story of someone finding reasons to keep going in life’s darkest moments by creating a list of “brilliant things” that make life worth living. The story aligns powerfully with Borrow My Angel’s mission. Born from personal experience with loss, this organization works to break down mental health stigma and remind people they’re never alone in their struggles. We spoke with founder, Chuck Dow, to learn more about Borrow My Angel’s vital work in our community.
A Mission Born from Loss
What inspired you to start Borrow My Angel, and what does the name mean to you?
Borrow My Angel was born from my own family’s story. After losing two siblings to suicide, I felt a deep calling to break the silence around mental health. The name comes from a song I wrote years ago for my sister when she was struggling. The idea is simple but powerful: we all have a guardian angel, but when you don’t feel strong enough, you can “borrow” an additional angel from someone else—someone to walk with you, listen to you, and remind you that you’re not alone.
For those in our community who may not know, how would you describe the mission of Borrow My Angel in your own words?
At its core, Borrow My Angel exists to reduce stigma around mental health, provide tools and education for suicide prevention, and most of all, inspire hope. We want people to know that reaching out for help isn’t weakness—it’s courage. Our mission is to create safe spaces where real stories are shared, conversations are opened, and people feel supported.
What Being a "Borrowed Angel" Really Means
What does “being someone’s borrowed angel” look like in action?
It’s not about fixing someone’s problems or having all the answers—it’s about showing up. Sometimes being someone’s borrowed angel means sitting in silence, listening without judgment, or just reminding them that they matter. It’s offering your presence, compassion, and belief in them when they can’t see it for themselves.
What needs have you noticed most in our community when it comes to grief and mental health?
The biggest need we see is connection. So many people are hurting, but they feel isolated and afraid to talk about it. We need more spaces where grief and mental health aren’t taboo, where people can openly share their struggles without shame. Education and awareness are critical, but at the heart of it, people just need to know they’re not alone.
Stories of Hope and Healing
Can you share a story or example of how Borrow My Angel has brought comfort or hope to someone in need?
What always sticks with me is the stories we hear at our community events. Nearly every event shows us the same powerful truth: when people hear stories of others who have walked through loss, it gives them the courage to share their own struggles. That moment of connection provides hope and reminds them there’s a community ready to walk alongside them.
If someone is struggling, what’s one simple way BMA can help them feel less alone?
Sometimes the smallest step makes the biggest difference. We invite people to take the Angel Pledge, which is all about committing to listen, care, and be present for others. Even just knowing you have a network of people willing to show up, to hear your story, and to share theirs can help chip away at the loneliness.
Finding Brilliant Things in Everyday Life
Every Brilliant Thing is about finding reasons to keep going. What are some of your own “brilliant things” that give you hope?
For me, it’s my family—my wife, my two boys, and the little everyday moments we share. Music has always been a source of hope for me, too, both creating it and enjoying it.
How does BMA’s work reflect that same spirit of hope, resilience, and connection?
Everything we do is about creating opportunities for hope and connection. Whether it’s hosting community events, sharing stories, or building tools like our Angel App, the goal is to remind people that there’s always a reason to keep going—and always someone willing to walk with you.
A Message of Hope
What message of hope would you want to leave with someone who is hearing about Borrow My Angel for the first time?
You are not alone. No matter how heavy the pain feels or how dark the moment seems, there are people ready to stand with you, to listen, and to remind you of your worth. Borrow My Angel exists to be that reminder—that your story matters, and hope is never out of reach.
What’s your vision for the future of Borrow My Angel?
Our vision for the future of Borrow My Angel is rooted in storytelling and open conversation. We believe that when people are brave enough to share their mental health journeys, it not only reduces stigma but also sparks hope in others who are struggling. We’re especially excited to continue bringing our video series to life, highlighting powerful personal stories that remind people they are not alone and that brighter days are possible.
How can local folks get involved, support your work, or share your message?
There are so many ways—volunteer at an event, take the Angel Pledge, donate, or simply share our message with someone who might need it. Even small acts, like checking in on a friend or posting a message of hope, ripple outward. Borrow My Angel is about community, and every person has a role to play in spreading kindness and breaking the stigma.
Extending Hope Beyond Our Walls
Just as Every Brilliant Thing shows us that hope often lives in everyday moments, Borrow My Angel demonstrates that healing can begin with simple acts of compassion. It might be listening without judgment, showing up when someone needs support, or reminding them they matter. As you experience this meaningful play with us, we invite you to consider how you might become someone else’s “borrowed angel.” Whether through volunteering, taking the Angel Pledge, or reaching out to someone in your life, each of us has the power to make a difference. Theater brings us together to share stories that matter, and through our partnership with Borrow My Angel, we’re extending that mission into Springfield, where dedicated people are doing the essential work of ensuring no one faces their struggles alone.
If you, or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone. Talk to someone. Reach out.
Resources for Support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (available 24/7)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386
- NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Media Contact:
Micah Abalos
Creative Media Specialist, High Tide Theatrical
[email protected]
