Olivia Cranford lost her brother, Dustin, to suicide in 2014.

“One of the worst parts of it was the complete shock that someone like him would do something like that,” said Cranford. “But as time went on and I became hyperaware of every mention or discussion around suicide and depression, I realized that there is this stigma around suicide and mental health in general that keeps us from facing the reality of it all.”

Olivia wanted to do something to help change the ignominy around suicide. So she and her mother, Becky, began working with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to plan an Out of the Darkness Walk.

Out of the Darkness community walks are the core of the Out of the Darkness movement, which AFSP founded in 2004. The walks are held in hundreds of cities across the country.

“We wanted to raise money for AFSP to help them in their efforts in raising awareness, supporting survivors of suicide loss, conducting research on mental health issues, and funding advocacy work within the legal system,” said Cranford.

Becky Cranford said she hopes the walk will provide an opportunity for people to talk about suicide and how to be proactive with steps for prevention.

“We can’t solve problems we don’t talk about,” said Cranford. “This walk is about giving people who have a connection to suicide the courage to talk about it. It offers the opportunity to walk in memory of loved ones we may have lost to suicide or in support of family and friends who may need to be surrounded by our strength. It gives people who may be struggling hope and encouragement.”

Olivia said the goal for donations is $20,000 and that nearly $16,000 has already been raised. 

“We need as many people as possible to walk,” said Olivia. “We will raise awareness and support within our community this way. The walk is meant to create a light within our community to let people who may be struggling around us know that there is help and support available.”

As of now, there are 70 participants and fourteen teams registered to walk in October. Registration is free, and anyone can participate. To register, visit https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.event&eventID=7985