An impactful time in San Francisco this past weekend
Many of us have been influenced deeply by the suicide, or an attempt, of someone we love. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has the goal to reduce this tragedy through the Out of the Darkness Overnight Walks.
Around 1,500 people gathered at Fort Mason Center this past Saturday evening. We started the evening with live music and then the CEO of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention spoke. He brought up on stage a number of people who have lost loved ones to suicide. 
We heard their stories and then we walked 16 miles together with 1,500 people who all have a story of loss. It was powerful to say the least.
I walked for Emma
For me personally, it was a time to bond with old and new friends and it was a time to remember a young woman that I knew from our time with Mercy Ships named Emma. I thought of Emma throughout the evening as we walked and I told her story to my team and to others I met along the route. Emma continues to live on through the story of her life.
I was deeply moved by other stories I heard through the evening as we all walked through the streets of San Francisco. I was also touched by the encouragement we received along the way. People spilling out of concerts, bars, and other events found out why we were walking and cheered us as we passed and gave us high fives all along the route.
What we were doing mattered in the same way the lives of all the people that we collectively knew who took their lives matter.
Next year! Are you going to join me?
AFSP has not yet announced where next year’s walk will be held but I plan to do this every year no matter the location. I am hoping that you will join me. I had an old college buddy and his daughter fly to San Francisco all the way from Montreal to participate in the event. My friend had lost a colleague to suicide and this walk was part of his healing. Wherever the walk may be, let’s meet up and share time together.
By the way
My amazing team of 5 people has raised $11,386! We were honored at the event as one of the top fundraising teams.
I’m so proud of Team New Roads Counseling and a big thank you to all our donors!
If you or someone you know has been affected by suicide and want to process, please make an appointment to talk with me here: Schedule a Free Consultation