Claire Eardley, Founder & Acting CEO
Physiotherapist | Owner of Silas Street Physiotherapy & Pilates
On 26 July 2016, my son Kai tragically took his life. Kai was a bright, charismatic young man, deeply loved by many, but beneath the surface, he struggled silently with anxiety. Though he had so much to offer, he didn’t have the words or the support he needed to reach out for help. This loss drives my commitment to Kai-Fella every day.
Born from heartbreak and supported by friends and the local community, Kai-Fella was created to save lives and prevent other families from enduring the pain I live with. I’m not ashamed to share Kai’s story. I only wish he had felt he could reach out. Through Kai-Fella, we aim to reduce the stigma around suicide and create spaces where young people, especially young men, can find the help they need.
Kai-Fella provides proven prevention strategies through workshops at schools, sporting clubs, and any community where we can make an impact. Our mission is simple: to let young people know that it’s okay to not be okay, and that seeking help is a courageous step toward healing. Suicide is the leading cause of death among youth, and tragically, we lose seven boys and two girls every day. Our work is focused on reversing this trend by fostering resilience, breaking harmful gender norms, and creating strong support networks.
With a background in physiotherapy, as the owner of Silas Street Physiotherapy, I understand the deep connection between physical and mental health. This experience allows me to approach well-being from a holistic perspective, supporting both body and mind.
Although I don’t have formal mental health training, my leadership at Kai-Fella is driven by lived experience. I lead with honesty, vulnerability, and authenticity, creating spaces for courageous conversations and change. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m committed to helping others understand that vulnerability is strength, and that asking for help is the first step to healing.
I hold a Postgraduate Spinal Master’s from Curtin University (2000) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy from Nottingham (1991). My goal is to expand Kai-Fella’s reach, build partnerships, and strengthen our evidence-based programs to make a real impact on youth mental health.
Through Kai-Fella, I honour Kai’s legacy by ensuring other young people never feel alone in their struggles. If we can save even one life, then our work has made a difference.
Your worth isn’t defined by the approval of others.
Trust yourself, seek out good people, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.