CINCINNATI —

A West Chester mother is turning her heartbreak into hope after the death of her 6-year-old boy last year.

Joshua Al Lateef Jr. drowned in a pond near his home in West Chester last November. Joshua had autism and was non-verbal. Advertisement

Next week, loved ones are hosting the "Echoes for Joshua" gala in his honor, with the goal of spreading awareness so no other families go through what they did.

On Friday, WLWT was joined by Jonisa Cook, Joshua's mother, who talked about the important topic and the event.

See the full interview in the video player at the top of the story.

The gala is being held at the Delta Hotels in Sharonville. Tickets are available and can be purchased here .

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