American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to host ‘Out of the Darkness Walk’
Suicide Prevention Cause Sparks Conversations
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is preparing to host the “Out of the Darkness Walk” on April 13, in what is set to be an enlightening event to raise awareness about suicide prevention. The walk aims to shed a light on the importance of mental health and provide support for those affected by suicide.
The walk will commence outside of the Mahurin Honors College and International Center, with participants having the chance to register from 11 a.m. Recalling the inception of this walk, event founder and Senior Biology Major Gabriel Heckerman said, “I started working with AFSP and brought the walk to our campus after losing someone very important to me to suicide.”
Event Combatting the Solitude of Suicide
Heckerman’s motivation behind initiating this walk was to provide a supportive platform for those who have been affected by suicide. “My hope in doing this was to support those I love who have been affected by suicide and to spark conversation on the topic to let people know they are not alone.”
Heckerman emphasizes that the walk is a symbol of unity, connecting people who are passionate about supporting those impacted by suicide. The resulting conversations and shared experiences create a lasting impact, providing solace and understanding in a space often marred by loneliness and confusion.
Other Means of Support
In addition to the walk, AFSP also offers an opportunity for those unable to attend the event. They can create a free fundraising page through WKU AFSP to raise funds that go towards supporting the cause, including funding mental health research and resources for those in need.
The week leading up to the walk is serving as an intense period of fundraising support. The WKU American Medical Student Association and Sigma Nu fraternity have come forward as sponsors of the AFSP fundraising week.
Looking to the Future
Heckerman expressed his hope for the future of the walk and the AFSP, especially as he prepares to graduate and pass on the responsibility of the walk to a passionate successor. “I hope that students will continue to reach out and engage with the organization so that it continues on campus for as long as possible.”
Registration information and other details about the “Out of the Darkness Walk” are available at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website. For questions or concerns, Gabriel Heckerman can be reached at [email protected]