Chad Lowe's daughter Fiona's cause of death at 13 released - USA Today
The cause of death for actor-director Chad Lowe's daughter, Fiona Hepler Lowe, has been released.
The 13-year-old died in a hospital on Sept. 29, according to a case update by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner on Oct. 1. The manner was determined to be a suicide.
Lowe and his wife, Kim Painter, announced their daughter's death in a family statement to People on Sept. 29.
"We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Fiona," the family wrote, adding she was "a loving young girl who was smart, creative, and loved to dance."
"She was adored by her sisters and she was deeply loved by her parents," they continued. "In fact, she was the light of our lives. Her passing is devastating for our entire family and we ask for prayers and privacy at this time."
Their message included information for the national suicide and crisis helpline: "If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988."
Lowe, 58, is an Emmy Award winner best known for his role as a teen on the ABC comedy-drama "Life Goes On" and is the younger brother of Rob Lowe. He and Painter, 52, have been married since 2010 and welcomed Fiona in November 2012. The pair also share daughters Mabel, 17, and Nixie Barbara, 10.
Suicide is a leading cause of death among youth and adults in the United States, according to the CDC.
It's the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10-14 in the U.S. and the third leading cause among people ages 15-24, per the National Alliance of Mental Illness.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s BeThe1To website provides five action steps for opening a line of communication with a person who may experience thoughts of suicide, including asking "Are you thinking about suicide?" Listen to their answer, then "Help them focus on their reasons for living."
Being physically or emotionally present for the person via phone and helping them connect with a support system, including the 988 Lifeline and community resources, are additional steps. Following up to make sure they have the support they need or if there are other ways you can help is another vital act that can reduce risk for suicide.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 any time day or night, or chat online through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.
