On Saturday, April 18, 2020, Western Carolina University will walk virtually, alongside the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to support their cause. The North Carolina statewide virtual walk will take place at noon and will be streamed live on Facebook. To walk alongside North Carolina families, friends and loved ones, go to the following link, www.facebook.com/afspnorthcarolina and take place in the virtual Out of the Darkness Walk.
Photo from Instagram page: @out_of_the_darkness_wcu
A group of passionate people came together to create this live stream so families and friends would get the opportunity to still walk for those they have lost or those they know are struggling. Social distancing has caused the actual walk unable to take place, but a virtual walk is here to take its place.
“This event meant a whole lot to me and so many others last year. I’m glad they are putting it on this year as well virtually, to keep those we love safe,” says Western Carolina junior, Ainsley McNeill, who will be participating in this year virtual walk, in an email message.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) was established in 1987 and the Out of the Darkness Walk came to Western Carolina University for the first time on March 24, 2019. See our coverage from last year.
AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and honoring those who have already passed from suicide.
“Suicide is related to brain functions that affect decision-making and behavioral control, making it difficult for people to find positive solutions” (AFSP).
Students gathered March 24, 2019 at WCU to walk remembering the people we lost to suicide. Photo by Kaitlyn Brown.
Western Carolina University has continued to be a part of this team to honor students they have lost in the past. To donate to AFSP you can go to their main website at www.AFSP.org and hit donate in the right top corner. On their website, you can also find information about what exactly AFSP is and how you can get involved.
“Although the in-person campus walk was cancelled, the virtual walk gives us the opportunity to connect with Out of the Darkness groups across North Carolina. This exposure shows us the impact American Foundation of Suicide Prevention can make on so many lives. I anticipate the walk will encourage people to reach out to one another for encouragement while we are so distanced,” says Carleigh Ballard, committee member and Western Carolina sophomore, in an email message.
Western Carolina’s committee for Out of the Darkness Walk hopes to see you on the live stream. Come with open ears or even your own story to share. April is suicide awareness month, and the committee is looking forward to seeing many individuals who have a passion to walk for a cause.
If you or a loved one is struggling with suicidal tendencies don’t hesitate to call (800) 273-8255 or text TALK to 741741. You’re not alone!
