FINDING A WAY OUT OF THE DARKNESS

Words by Meagan Pittelko Photography

Guests grab brightly colored beads from a table, gently lifting the necklaces over their heads. Just to the left of the table, a sign shows the variety of colors and what they represent today. For some, a simple string of beads represents the loss of a child, a sibling or a friend; for others, the beads represent no loss, but an acknowledgment of the cause. Either way, the community has come together once again, supporting all of those who have lost someone to suicide.

The local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention held its 10th annual Out of the Darkness Walk on Sunday September 13 at Lindenwood Park in Fargo.

According to Mary Weiler, the chapter’s chair, 1,325 people walked at this year’s event, raising over $60,000. Plus, donations will still be collected until December 31, 2015. In addition to that, over 160 people volunteered their time to assist with the walk. Their impact, Weiler said, is one of the most crucial parts of these community walks.

“Change won’t happen unless the community gathers together to make it happen,” she said. “We are the voice in our community for everyone surviving a loss or struggling themselves.”

[AWM]