Each year people from all over the globe light a candle to honor World Suicide Prevention Day. Most light a candle in memory of someone they love who has died by suicide. Some light a candle to honor suicide attempt survivors and the resiliency they demonstrate in their journey to recovery. This year the Carson J Spencer Foundation and the Denver Fire Department will co-host a Candle-Lighting Ceremony to recognize all those affected by suicide. The gathering is free and open to the public and will be held at Cheesman Park Pavilion, 1599 E. 8th Avenue, Denver, CO on Thursday, September 10th from 7:00pm-8:00pm. For more information visit: www.CarsonJSpencer.org.
“We used to call family members who lost loved ones to suicide ‘suicide survivors,’ and we estimated that on average about six people were profoundly affected,” said Sally Spencer-Thomas, CEO & Co-Founder of the Carson J Spencer Foundation. “New research tells us that when we consider the first responders, classmates, co-workers, neighbors, and many others, that number is actually much closer to 115.”
The event partnership between the Carson J Spencer Foundation, a Denver-based nonprofit and the Denver Fire Department will highlight the many ways people are impacted by suicide, and the importance of community connection in the healing process.
“Firefighters have the exceptional honor of being involved in the lives of others during some of the most profound moments in their lives. We view our job as a family, an identity, a calling,” said Warren Mitchell, Assistant Chief for the Denver Fire Department.
All those affected by suicide are invited to attend to light a candle, honor and remember including but not limited to:
- Suicide loss survivors and suicide attempt survivor
- First responders
- Witnesses
- Family members
- Therapists
- Close friends
- Health Care workers
- Community members
- Schools & workplaces
- Acquaintances
- Fans of celebrities
- Community groups (sporting clubs)
For more information about the Candle-lighting Ceremony or to get involved in suicide prevention contact Sally Spencer-Thomas Sally@CarsonJSpencer.org or visit www.CarsonJSpencer.org or 720-244-6535.
Video on firefighters coping with the aftermath of suicide here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ryy7EyAiyeQ
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About the Carson J Spencer Foundation (www.CarsonJSpencer.org) is a Colorado nonprofit, established in 2005. We envision a world where leaders and communities are committed to sustaining a passion for living. We elevate the conversation to make suicide prevention a health and safety priority. We sustain a passion for living by:
- Delivering innovative and effective suicide prevention programs for working-aged people.
- Coaching young leaders to develop social enterprises for mental health promotion and suicide prevention.
- Supporting people bereaved by suicide.
Contact: Sally Spencer-Thomas, PsyD, CEO & Co-Founder, 720-244-6535, sally@carsonjspencer.org
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