Suicide Prevention Awareness

I am participating in the “Out of the Darkness” community walks at both MVCC on September 25th, 2022 and HCCC on October 2nd, 2022. The “Out of the Darkness” community walk is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support. It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions have affected our lives and the lives of those we love.

This is why I will be walking this year for suicide prevention:

I live in the Mohawk Valley, where suicide has hit the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors in our small communities hard this past year. We lost 14 lives to suicide, one of which was my oldest son.

My son had struggled for a couple of years before he was finally diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorder. Growing up, he loved life. He had a huge heart, a contagious laugh, and a smile that would light up any room. For many, he was the one to call whenever something was needed. He was always willing to give a helping hand with anything for anyone. Because of his kind and loving nature, he made a significant impact on so many people. Unfortunately, help didn’t come in time for him. We lost our son to suicide on June 12th, 2021, at the age of 29. From the outside looking in, some would have never known he was struggling.

Since his death, I am now focusing on helping others with the hope of preventing another lost life. We as a community need to let people know that it’s okay to not be okay, that they matter and that they are important.

This is NOT your fight, It’s OUR fight, and you are NOT alone.

All money donated will go to Our Codie J. Brewer (Listen to my Silence) Scholarship Fund and to the “Out of the darkness” walks for both Oneida and Herkimer counties.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please reach out. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 @ 9-8-8.