At the seventh annual Darkness into Vineyard Light Suicide Preventation and Awareness Walk, dozens of participants gathered before the dawn Sunday at Bend in the Road Beach, the word “hope” emblazoned at the back of the nearby lifeguard station.
With lit candles in their hands, the crowd weathered the weekend’s rain and wind on a mission to raise awareness and lessen the stigma around talking about suicide. Founded in 2018 by John Murray and Maria Venture, the walk starts before sunrise and ends as the sky brightens near Big Bridge, symbolizing the journey through the darkness of depression and mental illness.
For many at the walk, the cause was one they held close. Ms. Ventura told the crowd about her father’s suicide and what inspired her to start the event.
“The goal for creating today’s event was to bring the community together to shine light and show compassion and love for those suffering and for those who have lost a loved one,” she said.
Ms. Venture emphasized the importance of checking up on others.
“It is my hope that we’ll take every opportunity to do something kind, something as simple as a smile or a hug,” Ms. Ventura said. “You never know how meaningful one small gesture could be to someone. Remember, it only takes a simple gesture to make a difference.”
Rachel Conroy, an annual visitor to the Island from Ireland, has been to every one of the walks since its inception. To her, this year’s walk was extra meaningful after her nephew’s friend died by suicide last year.
“It’s a meaningful cause and it’s a small piece of your life to come out here and go for a walk,” she said. “[Suicide awareness] needs to be highlighted more and more, especially with the young people.”
Part of bringing awareness is visible resources that are open to everyone, according to volunteer Sarah Toste.
“There are people here today that can help with support, resources, to talk to, or to listen,” Ms. Toste said. “So know that there are many members of the community that are always available to provide support and resources to those who are struggling.”
After the walk, laughs and smiles filled the air. People grabbed coffee and pastries, and ventured up to State Beach to see the waves roll in and a sliver of sunlight peeked through the crowd.
Ms. Ventura and Mr. Murray later thanked attendees, saying the day’s storm was an apt metaphor for the event.
“This year was difficult with the weather but all of you helped us take a stand to get out the message [that] the storms of life will come but there are always people who love you and will walk with you through it,” they said in a Facebook post. “Out of the darkness and into the light.”
Local and national suicide resources:
Samaritans of Cape Cod Crisis Hotline: 988
Bay Cove: 1 (833) 229 2683
Veteran crisis line: 1 (800) 273 8255
Youth Crisis support free text: 741 741
NAMI Cape Cod: (508) 778 4277
Trevor Hotline for LGBTQ Youth: (866) 488 7386
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