Out of the Darkness Walk mobilizes hundreds of people for suicide prevention

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) – At the Coliseum, hundreds of people showed up for the Out of the Darkness Walk, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Many who showed up say the support from these types of walks has been overwhelming.

“So (it’s) a little nerve-wracking, a little emotional,” said Heather Wyatt, mother of Aubreigh Wyatt. “We lost Aubreigh over a year ago, so it’s great to have the support. It’s emotional, but it’s empowering to raise awareness, share the message, (and) try to reach lives and help other people’s families and anyone who needs that support.”

According to the Mississippi Department of Mental Healthsuicide is the third leading cause of death for Mississippians ages 15 to 24. It is also the 11th leading cause of death in the US

That’s why since 2004, hundreds of cities across the country have participated to give people the courage to open up about their connections to the cause and create a platform to create a culture that is smarter about mental health.

“You know, for people who have lost a loved one to suicide, I think this is a very healing event. They can find those kinds of shared experiences with other people who know what they’re going through. That’s really invaluable, you know.” said Maghan Goldbeck, executive director of AFSP Louisiana and Mississippi Chapter.

During the program, soldiers completed a 22 push-up challenge in honor of the participants.

One family said their son would be happy if so many people showed up for him.

“He was the center of attention. He was the ‘Hey, let’s do this.’ He was the life of the party. That’s what he was.” said the Peacock Family.

The AFSP received more than $37,000 in donations, including $10,000 from title sponsor Scarlet Pearl.

Goldbeck says these funds will help with research, suicide prevention education and support for survivors.

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