On Saturday, September 14th, the Western New York chapter of AFSP will sponsor its Walk Out of Darkness. It is held in Delaware Park, and begins at 10:30. For more detailed information, this is a good reason to google the AFSP website and be aware of what it has to offer.
I did not attend the walk the first year after we lost Erik, but did attend the second year. I did not attend last year because I was "mad" at AFSP, (yes, ridiculous reason), but I will be attending this year.
This is one of those things that can be so helpful to someone, or may not be appealing at all. Thankfully, there seems to be a huge ...
number of people who are dedicated to making sure it happens, and there is always a large turnout the day of the walk.
These types of activities are so important, for many reasons. They are first of all a tribute to those we have lost, and a visible way to say to the world that we remember them and love them. It is also an overwhelming demonstration of how many of us there are (survivors), and a way for us to be with each other and show support. And of course, it is a fundraiser to promote awareness and education to prevent further losses.
The year that I attended, I was struck by the positive and uplifting atmosphere of the gathering. Held in the park, it could have been any type of walk or gathering. There was music and refreshments, posters and chatter of people greeting each other. I am guessing that it turns out to be a very unique experience for each person attending, depending on who walks with you and how long it has been since your loss.
There is a short greeting and introduction, and there is a reading of the names of those being remembered. This is obtained from the registration list of those who are walking, although asking that your loved one be mentioned is optional.
I would encourage anyone who has an inclination towards doing so, to participate in the walk. Participation can take any form, be a solitary experience or a gathering of friends and relatives. It is very anonymous, because there are so many people. If someone should have second thoughts once they get there, they can leave. And walking the full three miles is optional, the walk is twice around the track, so it is easy to sneak away after the first time around...(something I am reminding myself of...two years older this year!).
So please be aware of this important day, and consider participating if you live in Western New York. There are other walks throughout the country, again, refer to the AFSP website.
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