Carl’s Cause Receives Top Honor from The University of Kansas Health System
Carl’s Cause was selected for induction into The University of Kansas Health System’s Hall of Fame — the highest honor awarded by the health system. This special recognition celebrates individuals and organizations who help transform The University of Kansas Health System through innovative thinking, meaningful advocacy and unwavering support.
Bob and Kelly Specht received the prestigious Catalyst Award at The University of Kansas Health System Hall of Fame Awards on June 12, 2025.
Who We Are
‘Carl’s Cause’ is a 501 (c)(3) which promotes mental health awareness. It was created following the devastating loss of an amazing young man, Carl Specht at age 27.
Carl was a loving son, brother, cousin and friend to many. He was smart, kind, handsome, athletic and funny. His life was not defined by mental illness but his death was. Carl died by suicide on June 23, 2017 the result of depression, stigma that surrounds mental illness and the lack of access to care.
The future of mental health must change as too many promising, young people are losing their lives to this illness. Our goal is to bring mental health awareness to the ‘stadium level’, where it’s ok to talk openly about mental health among families, friends, co-workers and children of all ages.
The time is NOW – the topic is A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH.
If you are considering suicide or harming yourself, please call or text 988 to reach a crisis worker right away.
A GAME CHANGER FOR MENTAL HEALTH
COMBATING STIGMA
CREATING AWARENESS
CONNECTING RESOURCES
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