After Roxbury shooting, family reconciles a mother’s mental health struggles

In the wake of the tragic Roxbury shooting that claimed the life of 61-year-old Molea, her family’s journey through grief has shed light on the often-overlooked issues surrounding mental health and homelessness. Molea’s story is a poignant reminder of how interconnected these challenges can be and how they affect not only the individual but also their loved ones and the community.

On a rainy Monday, the Roxbury neighborhood experienced a grim turn of events when Molea was discovered lying next to a bus shelter on Washington Street, later pronounced dead at the hospital. This incident marked the city’s 27th homicide of the year and sparked concern among local residents, especially those within the homeless community. For many, including those who frequented nearby shelters, the shooting highlighted the inherent vulnerabilities faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. As Jose Colon, a local resident, poignantly remarked, “You’d think a bus stop would be safe, but this happened in broad daylight.”

Molea’s family learned of her death with a deep sense of sorrow and disbelief. John Calnan, her first husband, expressed the horror of receiving such a devastating news, lamenting that they anticipated a tragic call someday, but never imagined it would be this. Molea’s life and challenges were starkly divided into a past filled with vibrance and a present marked by mental illness and homelessness.

For over two decades, Molea struggled with mental health issues, a journey that drastically altered her life and her family dynamics. Her daughter, Krysta Calnan, noted that the family’s understanding of her struggles evolved over time. Initially, her mental health decline was a source of confusion and hurt, but eventually, it became a painful acceptance of her reality. The family fondly remembers the vibrant woman who was once active in their lives, celebrated for her roles as a devoted mother and dedicated nurse.

In her youth, Molea was celebrated not only for her academic achievements but also for her vibrant character, evidenced by her titles as cheerleading captain and homecoming queen. These memories stand in stark contrast to her later life marked by delusion and paranoia. Her mental health decline, compounded by lupus—a disease that affects both physical and mental health—pushed her into a cycle of homelessness, which further alienated her from her family.

Tragically, the circumstances of her death bring to light a broader issue: the stigma surrounding mental health and the homeless crisis. Molea was known in her community for her kindness and willingness to help those around her, often offering assistance to others even when she faced her struggles. As Andrea Corin, a close friend, recalled, “If someone was on the ground, she was the first to run to help.”

Molea’s story elevates the need for robust social services in addressing the pervasive issue of homelessness intertwined with mental health challenges. Shari Delgiudice, a friend who also frequented Rosie’s Place—the shelter where Molea resided—emphasized the necessity for comprehensive support systems that can provide stable housing and mental health resources. “If she had been housed, everything would have been easier,” she reflected.

As the community grapples with this recent loss, the focus must extend beyond the tragedy itself and into a broader discussion about the systemic issues surrounding mental health and homelessness. The struggle faced by Molea and those like her is far from unique; many families share similar narratives of loss, confusion, and the desire for understanding. While Molea’s family seeks to remember her as a holistic individual—not merely defined by her challenges—they also hope to bring awareness to the struggles that led her to such a tragic fate.

This incident highlights the urgent need for societal change in how we handle mental health and homelessness. More accessible mental health resources, immediate crisis intervention, and housing stability programs are essential components that can prevent future tragedies. Advocating for comprehensive care can provide individuals like Molea with the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives, rather than fall into cycles of despair.

As the Roxbury community mourns the loss of Molea, her story serves as a powerful testament to the human experience—the complexities, the struggles, and the undying spirit of individuals. It underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and action in the face of systemic crises. Families affected by similar situations must be supported not only in their grief but also in their pursuit for change.

In honoring Molea’s memory, the call to action is clear: society must recognize the humanity in every individual, especially those facing the dual challenges of mental health and homelessness. The hope is that through collective action and awareness, the tragic ending of one life can inspire a change that saves many others.

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