Hope rocks! Hope is what keeps us all moving toward a better and brighter tomorrow. Hope spreads love, awareness, and support. On September 7, 2013 the Delaware Suicide Prevention Coalition and HelpLine will be raising awareness and spreading hope for suicide prevention. The walk is a unique opportunity for people to show their passion for suicide prevention. It is also a way for survivors of suicide to continue processing their grief and to feel supported by the Delaware community. This year the walk will feature hope rocks, speakers, time to share personal stories, a balloon release, and live music by local band, Lucky Penny.
The idea behind a hope rock is that people can write down their hopes on something solid. When a hope has been written down, suddenly it becomes real. The hope rocks will be created before the walk begins and will be carried by each individual until the rocks can be laid down in a special Hope Garden at HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc. This garden has been set aside as a permanent symbol of hope for suicide prevention and to illustrate and enhance the solidarity of our local community.
The music at this year’s walk is another way for people to process and show support. A series of hand-picked songs, which represent hope and change, will be performed live. Some of the songs, like “Brave” by Sara Bareilles will inspire participants to stand up against the stigmas associated with suicide and mental illness. Our hope is that the music and lyrics will encourage people to do what they can to help others in the community.
The last event of the walk is a favorite of past participants’: the balloon release. Each person is able to write a message on their own balloon. This message can be one of hope or something more personal to a lost loved one. Once everyone has written a message, the balloons are released, symbolizing rising hope and delivered messages. It is a moving and uplifting experience for many and is a great way to express one’s emotions.
The 3rd Annual Suicide Prevention Walk is a free event, open to anyone that would like to show their support for suicide prevention. Online pre- registration is available for those that would like to sign up early. You can pre-register at https://helplinedelmor.org/annual-suicide-prevention-walk-september-7/
We look forward to walking side-by-side with you on September 7!
