By Kat Bryant
Grays Harbor News Group
The Out of the Darkness Walk drew 101 participants to Morrison Park in Aberdeen on Sunday, raising over $6,000 to raise awareness for suicide prevention.
Aberdeen’s annual community walk is one of hundreds sponsored nationwide by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The nonprofit organization seeks to erase the stigma of depression by giving people a platform to speak openly about their struggles.
In addition to raising funds, the walks serve as gathering points for those whose lives suicide has touched. Some have lost friends or family members; others have loved ones who are struggling with such thoughts. Still others are facing their own demons. All come together at these events to support one another.
Team TyTy was the top fundraising group this year, accounting for $1,333 of the total. Its eight members are friends and family of Tyler Bushmiller, who took his own life in 2012 at age 18. His son Tyson, now 7, is among them.
“They say there are always signs, but he didn’t show any,” said Doria Adams, Tyler’s aunt, who led the team. “He was wise beyond his years — giving, loving and caring.”
Several local organizations also were on-site with informational and interactive displays Sunday in support of suicide prevention. Among them were Out & Proud Grays Harbor, Harbor Include, alifeYOUnited and the National Alliance on Mental Illness-Washington Coast.
photo by Kat Bryant | Grays Harbor News Group As the top fundraising group, Team TyTy carried the banner to lead the walk.
