Out of the Darkness Community Walk Sept. 18 could save lives by educating public about depression and suicide
Sharon P. Sheldon
In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 15 minutes, claiming more than 34,000 lives each year. It is estimated that an attempt is made every minute; with close to one million people attempting suicide annually.
By walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Sunday, Sept. 18, you will be walking with thousands of people nationwide to raise money for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's vital research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives, increase national awareness about depression and suicide, advocate for mental health issues and assist survivors of suicide loss.
A major goal of this event is to show support for the families and friends of the 33,000
Americans who die by suicide each year and the 20 million people who suffer from depression. The walk is also designed to help increase awareness about suicide and its causes and encourage those who are suffering from mental illness to seek treatment.
They will also be recognizing the alarming number of service member/veteran suicides by having a guest speaker from the U.S. Armed Forces at the event, as Master Gunnery Sergeant Phillip Bush joins them this year. Bush is an active duty Marine who is currently working for the Marine Corps Suicide Prevention Program in Quantico, Va.
The second guest speaker will be Tim Wessel, who is a high school/family pastor at Brighton Nazarene Church. Tim is a survivor of a suicide attempt, and he will share his inspiring story.
This is a free event, so walkers are encouraged to invite family, friends, neighbors and coworkers to walk as well. Participants may register individually or can create a team.
Fundraising is optional, and any money that is raised will help fund research, education, survivor and awareness programs — both to prevent suicide and to assist those affected by suicide. The funds will be used in the Ann Arbor area and around the country. On-line registration and fundraising is now available at http://bit.ly/AnnArbor2011.
Last year the Ann Arbor walk had 480 participants and raised more than $33,000! They hope to exceed both this year, and, with your help, we can achieve this goal.
Other community resources:
Suicide Alert (resources for teens)
If you have any questions or concerns please contact the walk chair:
Tiffany Messer
Ann Arbor "Out of the Darkness" Walk Chair
734-323-2427
mailto:AFSPAnnArbor@gmail.com