FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2013
HelpLine and Delaware Suicide Prevention Coalition host Annual Suicide Prevention Walk Saturday, September 7, 2013
I walk so others can live – Why will you walk?
Delaware, OH – If you or someone you know has lost someone in your life, you know the following days, weeks, and months can be a confusing time. You might have focused on finding support, giving support, or just getting back into a routine. At HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc. (HelpLine), we understand that this alone is a difficult process and one that is unique to every person.
When someone loses a loved one to suicide, the grief is even more complex, and finding a way to remember them can be inspiring and painful all at the same time. For those who understand the significant impact of suicide loss and would like to make a difference, the Delaware Suicide Prevention Coalition, has created an opportunity for anyone looking to use their experience for a greater cause.
On Saturday, September 7, 2013, friends, families, professionals, and caring community members will gather at Bicentennial Park to do just that. At the 3rd annual Suicide Prevention Walk in Delaware, Ohio, the message is “I Walk So Others Can Live” and the theme is Hope.
“I had the opportunity to meet other like-minded people and make connections” said one attendee who participated in the walk last year. Others said that they came just to support the cause and it was a beautiful gathering. We invite you, friends, family members, or anyone in your life to attend.
Each survivor has their own path to healing. A local woman attended HelpLine’s Survivors Of Suicide (SOS) group after the loss of her teenage son. She utilized an SOS group in Columbus and also attended a children’s grief camp in which the suicide prevention program participates. Three of her children attended and engaged in the fun and introspective activities of the camp to help them cope and make sense of their feelings.
As time passed she organized meetings with the school principals, counselors, and teachers to explore prevention programs. She continued to rally and advocate for suicide prevention and awareness – the district is now pursuing Red Flags. Through sharing and advocacy she continues to use her experience to help others.
“The pain of losing someone to suicide fades a little over time but never truly goes away. We hope the walk will be a helpful event for people; wherever they may be in their grief” said Max Lencl, HelpLines Suicide Prevention Director. “This event is an opportunity to create new memories and honor those we love.”
In addition to the healing and inspiration that comes from the Walk’s variety of events, we are accepting donations that directly benefit the Delaware Suicide Prevention Coalition’s efforts. Donate for the cause, donate for a memory, or donate to help others find hope.
For more information on the 3rd Annual Suicide Prevention Walk; go to https://helplinedelmor.org/annual-suicide-prevention-walk-september-7/, to register online visit http://goo.gl/G1QXOH or contact Max Lencl at mlencl@helplinedelmor.org.
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About HelpLine
HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that provides a 24-hour crisis support hotline, information/referral sexual assault advocacy, suicide & violence prevention and serves as the area’s only volunteer center. Committed to empowering people through knowledge, support and resources, HelpLine facilitates stability and self-sufficiency through linkage to services, crisis management, and mental health related & violence prevention education in Delaware and Morrow County communities.
HelpLine is a contract provider of the Delaware-Morrow Mental Health & Recovery Services Board and partially funded by the Council for Older Adults. A United Way Agency, HelpLine is accredited by the American Association of Suicidology, National Alliance of Information & Referral Systems and certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services. For more information, please visit: www.HelpLinedelmor.org.
Contact: Sue Hanson, Executive Director
Phone: 740.363.1835, ext. 107
E-mail: shanson@HelpLinedelmor.org
