People of all ages participated in Sunday’s walk
CARMEL – A chilly autumn morning awaited more than 350 walkers Sunday who participated in Putnam County’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk throughout the hamlet of Carmel.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s signature event raised both funds and awareness about suicide.
The national foundation reported last week that one person takes his or her own life every 13 minutes in the U.S. claiming more than 39,500 lives annually while a suicide attempt is made every minute of every day resulting in nearly one million annually.
“Many worthwhile causes are found throughout the country including Breast Cancer Awareness, March of Dimes, American Heart Association, Autism Awareness and ALS just to name a few,” said Steve Dolce, director of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “Money raised for any of these health issues helps doctors and scientists develop cures and save lives. When it comes to suicide prevention, one doesn’t have to be a doctor or a nurse or scientist. We all can save lives by understanding what the indications are and by learning the warning signs, we can interrupt that tragic thought. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention creates a culture about mental health and suicide prevention.”
Putnam Commissioner of Social Services and Mental Health Mike Piazza lauded the large turnout. “You people are here for out of love. While many of us cry due to the loss of a loved one or friend, we are creating a community that will become aware of suicide knowing the resources available to avert such tragedy by making connections and providing support.”
Piazza called on all residents to “know the warning signs. We can make a statement that intervention is obtainable.”
County Executive Mary Ellen Odell described the walk as a “team effort. We are here to support each other while finding peace of mind. If you or a loved one is struggling, help is here for you in Putnam County.”
More than 35 members of Kelly’s Angels, a group formed by members of the Lake Carmel FD following the tragic loss two years ago of Kelly Keher at the age of 19, raised thousands of dollars for research.
