FROM STAFF REPORTS

Jeremy Cannada knows too well that a phone call is all it takes to change your life forever.

Cannada, the minister at First Presbyterian Church, received the devastating news at age 23 that his father had died by suicide.

As he stood before those gathered Sunday for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Walk at Statesville High School on Sunday, Cannada recalled the caring and support he received following his father’s death; and urged participants to extend that caring and support to others who are struggling.

“My father’s story didn’t end with his death. His story continues in me. Our goal is to work on their behalf,” he said. “Keep checking in with each other and keep listening to each other’s stories. Know this, a phone call is all it takes to change a life for the better.”

That goal drives all of AFSP’s advocacy and awareness efforts, organizer Susan Tolle told participants and volunteers during Sunday’s walk.

“We can do this. We can fight this fight and keep up the hope,” Tolle said. “We want people to know, no one is alone.”

While there is still much work to be done, Tolle said she finds hope in the stories of those who have been helped by prevention efforts.

“When you hear about people dying by suicide, I want you to also think about all those who aren’t,” she said. “We are making a difference.”

The event, in its seventh year, has raised about $300,000.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about AFSP’s programs or to donate, visit www.afsp.org. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Photo Gallery