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Suicide prevention walk wants to “Save the One”

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Suicide prevention walk wants to “Save the One”

People all around Coeur d’ Alene came together in support for the 8th Annual “Save the One” event. This 3.2 mile walk, was held to raise awareness of the hidden epidemic of suicide on September 9.

Suicide in the United States is a major public health problem with approximately 42,000 reported suicides among persons aged greater than 10 years. It is the second leading cause of death among youths and young adults aged 10-34 years.

There are many resources here in North Idaho to help someone who is silently struggling. SPAN, Idaho’s Suicide Prevention Action Network, has a mission to eradicate suicide in Idaho through statewide advocacy, collaboration and education.

“Raise awareness, talk about it, and encourage help-seeking behaviors,” said Catherine Perusse, chapter chairperson for Region One SPAN.

CEO/Executive Director of NCCE Heidi Rogers shared her story of how her father of 78 years had committed suicide. She said she will remember her father for who he was, not what he did.

“It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere,” she said. “I am who I am because of him.”

SPAN offers suicide prevention resources 24/7. There are also many opportunities to volunteer and make a difference. SPAN want to make this silent epidemic one that is no longer silent and one that can be helped, by getting help out there and creating a safe zone so that there is no longer a silent struggle, but a solution.

Panhandle Health District Director Lora Whalen said, “Suicide touches us all in many ways, we need to create awareness.”

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I am a writer for the Setinal Staff at North Idaho College.

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