By Erin Purdie, CUA
Salem Health Psychiatric Patient Services

Almost everyone has been touched in some way by suicide — or attempted suicide. I certainly have, and that’s why the special walk I’m doing with friends on Oct. 8 means so much to me.

I know it’s a very touchy subject. Many people avoid talking about it … but we need to shine a brighter light to help people out of their darkness!

Please join the Salem Health team for the first Salem/Keizer Out of the Darkness Community Walk at 10 a.m. at Salem’s Riverfront Park. Walks like these are happening across our country, thanks to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. And, thanks to Salem Health for being a major sponsor of our walk.

Too close to home

Two years ago, my niece called in a panic, saying my sister had pointed a gun to her head and was about to pull the trigger. She was saved only by a quick-acting sheriff doing a welfare check. That same weekend, I received a call from my best friend’s daughter telling me her mom was in ICU after an over-dose of meds. Two months ago, another dear friend attempted suicide by overdose for the third time.

These are all beautiful, smart women. They’re moms, grandmothers, sisters and friends. I am so grateful they’re all still with us, but the road back from the brink has been difficult for them. And others haven’t been so fortunate.

Join Salem Health’s team!

Please join me for the first Salem/Keizer Out of the Darkness Community Walk from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Salem’s Riverfront Park. Walks like these are happening across our country, thanks to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Go here to register and learn more, or check out their Facebook page. Please call or email Erin for more information to join Salem Health’s team.