Walking Towards Light 2018
Featured in the Dayton Daily News
This past weekend, over 1,500 people gathered in the Oakwood High School football stadium for the 5thannual Out of the Darkness (OOD) Walk, sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The community event is designed to bring awareness to the issues related to suicide and provide a safe and welcoming space for those who have been touched by the tragedy of this unique loss. It is also a fundraiser for the AFSP, whose mission is to fund research, advocate, create educational programs, and support survivors of suicide loss. What started out as a cloudy, cold morning turned into a perfect fall day, where the chill of the air offered just a tease beneath a brilliant blue sky. Early that morning, volunteers showed up willing to help set up tables, organize registration, and prepare a welcoming palate where all could feel safe within this difficult realm. Representatives from community organizations dedicated to mental health solutions lined the stadium track with accessibility to literature and resources for help. Amid the ear muffs and fleece layers, smiles reigned despite the fact that most participants had been touched by suicide somewhere, somehow. We didn’t ask, we just knew. As the air warmed, the walkers showed up. There were “teams” of people who wore matching t-shirts honoring their loved one lost. Others lingered arm in arm as they navigated their way around the track, mingling with others who could understand.
Part of the experience of the day is the opportunity to wear honor beads - each color showing the personal connection to the cause. The sun glistened against the varied colored beads resting against the hearts of those once broken from loss. All in attendance were invited to raise their hands in solidarity with others who wore the same color beads. Those who lost spouses, siblings, children or friends joined with others, opening the circle of shared experiences. I was especially moved by those who acknowledged their own struggles with depression and bravely raised their arms. Their courage may have offered a vehicle for others who’ve been silently grappling with despair.
Each year I am struck by the comfort community offers. Looking out among the sea of people walking along the Oakwood side streets provided a blanket of consolation. Mental illness or suicidal tendencies often yield isolation and loneliness. Yet on our walk day, the neighborhoods of Oakwood, Ohio were lined with those who showed up, creating space for light and encouragement. Despite the sad byproducts of suicide, hope prevailed. For those of you who participated or are touched by issues related to suicide, our local OOD Walk was a roaring success. Participation was greater this year than last. Together, we raised over $57,000 increasing our 5-year grand total to over $250,000. Most importantly, we are shedding more light on the issues of hopelessness. As we rest in the glowing aftermath of our afternoon together, we are even more assured that if we keep at it, we can decrease the incidence of suicides. We continue on. If any of you feel mobilized in the wake of our walk to become more involved, contact our local AFSP chapter board member, Sallie Wilson Luther by email swluther@aol.com, or by phone, 937-298-2607. We have a long way to go, but the momentum in the wake of our community gathering is strong and propelling. Our goal is simple. Stop Suicide. I’ll see you next year.