LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — The annual Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide prevention took place this morning at MacArthur Park in Little Rock, drawing advocates together to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention research. Willow Danielle, a board member of the Arkansas chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, emphasized the event’s dual purpose: “The purpose of the out of the darkness walk is to raise funds for suicide prevention research and really bring awareness to what is a major public health crisis.”
Despite the heavy topic, the event was filled with joy and support, according to Jhanell Rivera, a committee member. “The walk, even though it’s heavy, it’s so much joy and so much light, because we smile, we come together, we support one another,” she said. The event featured a touching ceremony, booths offering mental health services, and areas for reflection and open dialogue.
Over 70 teams participated, walking in honor of loved ones and those who have struggled with suicidal thoughts. Janice Patrick, a survivor, shared her personal experience: “Three times I attempted suicide, and I have my family members coming to support me and just to see that someone is not afraid to say, hey, we need help.”…