American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

On September 24th the Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Committee will hold a walk in Busse Woods Forest Preserve to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 15 minutes, claiming more than 34,000 lives each year. It is estimated that an attempt is made every minute; with close to one million people attempting suicide annually.

Thirteen years ago my Fraternity Brother John Waldrop Jr walked into his backyard and took his own life.   The news of his sudden death hit me hard and left me struggling for answers.  Driving to Chandler Arizona for his funeral, and meeting his family for the first time really moved me.

Initially, I wanted to participate in the walk, but I have a scheduling conflict so I made a donation towards the Chicago Walk in memory of John.  The donor drive accepts donations until December 31, but I hope that you consider making a donation today.

This is number 32 and now only eighteen left to go.