The Community Out of the Darkness Walks created a nationwide movement for suicide prevention. Held in hundreds of cities across the country, they give people the courage to open up about their own struggle or loss, and the platform to change our culture’s approach to mental health. While this year’s events may look a little different, our mission to Save Lives and Bring Hope to Those Affected by Suicide has not changed. We are a strong and resilient community, united in our effort to fight suicide, raise awareness, educate our communities, advocate for better public policies, support those who have lost loved ones, and support those with lived experience. We use our voices and share our stories to provide hope.
The Bowling Green Area Out of the Darkness Walk, hosted by the Kentucky Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), was started in 2012 by Katelyn Simpson after her own experiences with suicide loss.
“I started the Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Walk in honor of my brother, Houston, and my friend, Eric. Two different men who lived two different lives but were alike in so many ways.
“Eric was vibrant and FUNNY! He was adorable and the life of the party. He wrote music. He was in college and in a fraternity. He was every bit of the word ‘fun’ and he made sure everyone was laughing. He made an impression on my life in many ways.
“My brother Houston was tough and sarcastic. He was handsome and a protector. He was working to be an electrician and was a very hard worker. He loved nice things but would give you anything he had without a second thought. He was the definition of compassion.
“Both men loved their family and were proud of them. Both men came from very loving homes with supportive families. Both men were mamas’ boys. Both men were selfless, had lots of friends, and would do anything for someone else. Both men could charm your socks off. Both men were hard, if not impossible, to forget. Both men were Christians. Both men were exceptional people who carried a load of thoughts and feelings that were bigger than them. They both wore their heart on their sleeve but had troubles that they did not know how to handle.
“I walk for my brother who I will never stop missing and wishing that we had one more day. I walk for Houston and Eric so that people can understand that suicide does not discriminate. I share their stories so people understand that suicide does not discriminate, and mental health effects people of all personalities and backgrounds. I encourage you to reach out, ask the tough questions, and have the awkward conversations. Reaching out to someone you are worried about can save a life. Suicide is a leading cause of death, but it is preventable. We all have a role to play in saving lives. So, I will continue to put one foot in front of the other, walking toward a day when no one will die by suicide and everyone will be smart about mental health.”
In the era of Covid-19, as we all try to protect our mental health and cope with uncertainty, it’s more important than ever that we be there for each other and take steps to prevent suicide. While the Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Walk will look different this year, it is going to be filled with just as much hope, healing and connection as it would on a typical year. We have transitioned to an Out of the Darkness Experience for our 2020 event in order to ensure the safety of our walkers and volunteers, while giving people plenty of opportunity to engage both in-person and online. Plans are continuously evolving, so the best way to stay updated is by registering at afsp.org/BowlingGreen.
Will you walk with us?
-submitted by Out of the Darkness Walk
