On the 7th I will be participating in the Out of the Darkness Walk sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. So naturally I’m hyping it all over social media. Please read my story below, and click here if you would like to donate!
I’m walking in the Out of the Darkness Buffalo Walk to fight suicide and support AFSP’s bold goal to reduce the suicide rate 20% by 2025.
Several years ago, my friend Beth asked me to walk with her in the AFSP’s Out of the Darkness walk. I obliged, unaware of what this walk would come to mean to me. I have struggled with mental illness since childhood, and have had moments in my life where suicide seemed like a viable option. I found that I could never take my own life, mainly because of my sister, who is my bright spot in all things dark. However, I wanted to help others who haven’t found their bright spot yet, and help them move away from the destructive path of depression that often leads to suicide.
I started raising money and participating in the walk yearly. I recruited friends and family to participate. I even suggested to my mother that her employer, a mental health organization, set up an information booth. Next year, health providing, I hope to volunteer on the planning committee. It has become my pet charity, and has a mission statement I believe in.
I want anyone reading this to know that they are not alone. I want my friends and family to know that they can reach out to me at any time. I want those suffering from depression, abuse, trauma, illness, and addiction to choose one more day.
I did.
Keep choosing more. Keep hanging on. It may not get easier, but that doesn’t mean it can’t get better. I can tell, from my experience, that it does indeed get better.
Please help me reach my goal by clicking the “Donate” button on this page. All donations are 100% tax deductible and benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), funding research, education, advocacy, and support for those affected by suicide.
Thank you for your support!
Ham 'N Eggs 