HOPES Walk Raises Awareness

by Eric Garland, HOPES Board Member
Newsletter Contributor, In Memory of Brandon Garland

Saturday morning, May 5th was the date of the 9th annual HOPES Walk for Awareness.  This was the second walk that my family and I had participated in.  I would like to share some of my reflections from the walk and what participating in the walk means to me.

The first thing that jumped out at me was the number of people who were there to participate in the walk.  I would estimate that 300 people attended this year's Walk for Awareness.  All of the people that gathered had been affected by suicide in one way or another.  Everyone had their own story.  Some wanted to share their story; others felt more comfortable keeping their story private.  Some people were there to receive support.  Others were there to offer support to those in need.  As I met people throughout the day, I realized that everyone has to cope with their own unique situation in their own way.

A portion of the opening ceremony includes reading the names of loved ones lost to suicide.  This year I was entrusted with the honor of being the person to read the names aloud.  To me, the reading of the names of loved ones lost is the most emotional and touching moment of the day.  I was proud to be the one to read the names; I was also very saddened by the reality of the number of names to be read.

After the reading of the final name, it was time for the 3 mile walk to begin.  As the hundreds of participants began their journey, they were led by music provided by representatives of the McFarland High School Band.  Some people walked in groups and others walked alone.

The theme for this year's walk was "I make a difference."  As I watched the crowd of people embark on their journey, i was well aware that everyone came together to make a difference in their own way.

A lunch and drawing for donated prizes rounded out a successful day.  Funds raised support both prevention efforts and services to survivors.  This event is one that organizers, sponsors, and participants can be proud of.

From the SOS of Dane County Newsletter, July 2007, Vol.13, Issue 3

Thanks for joining us for the 8th Annual HOPES
Walk for Awareness in 2007