The Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship is available to eligible students interested in pursuing a post-graduate degree in the field of mental health from an accredited overseas institution.
Addison Kelly was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression at age 15. These mental illnesses were directly caused by trauma she experienced between the ages of 8 to 10 years old when she was sexually abused. The pain she suffered took her on a difficult journey and she struggled with self-harm and other mental health disorders. She was then diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Even as she fought daily for her mental health, she maintained the most positive attitude and kept a smile on her face.
When Addi was in treatment, she spoke often about wanting to study to become a therapist and/or psychiatrist when she got older so she could help others who were experiencing similar challenges, especially in Cayman, her beloved home. She had researched colleges which offered programmes in these fields, and in her more hopeful moments was looking forward to making a difference in her world. However, on Tuesday, 8 February 2022, Addi succumbed to her illnesses, taking her life at just 16-years old.
This scholarship was created by the Kelly family to enable persons in Cayman who have a desire to help people struggling with mental illnesses do so. Addi had a team of incredible therapists and doctors who helped her through many challenging times, but we know that there is an urgent need in Cayman for more trained specialists in this field.
The Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship is awarded to individuals seeking a post-graduate degree in the field of mental health from an accredited overseas institution, with annual renewal subject to academic performance. The scholarship is administered through the Alex Panton Foundation with support from Addi’s family, and offers CI$25,000 per annum for up to 4 years for Caymanians to pursue post-graduate studies in the fields of psychology, psychiatry or psychotherapy. It is awarded every two years (biennially) and recipients must return to work in Cayman for the number of years for which the scholarship was given. The opportunity also includes a mentorship with a doctor level psychologist/mental health provider to support the navigation of this journey.
The Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship is funded primarily from the proceeds of the Addison Kelly Butterfly 5k Walk/Run, the first of which took place on Saturday, 4 February 2023.
The Addison Kelly Butterfly 5k Walk/Run was created to honour Addi and to raise funds for the Addison Kelly memorial scholarship fund. The inaugural event was held on 4 February 2023 and the 2nd annual event was held on 3 February 2024.
The event will always be held on the first Saturday in February, honouring each year Addi has been gone and to bring awareness of her story and the importance of mental health awareness.
The 2025 Addison Kelly Butterfly 5k will take place on 1 February and registration will open on 10 September, which is recognised as World Suicide Awareness Day.
Ms. Jamara Bodden is the first recipient of the Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship. The funding will allow Ms. Bodden to complete the final year of a two-year online master’s degree programme in psychology and neuroscience of mental health at Kings College London in September, after which time she intends to pursue a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) degree in the UK.
Donations for the Addison Kelly Memorial Scholarship can be made to:Bank: Cayman National BankName: Alex Panton FoundationAccount number: 012-74499, KYD Savings