MARIETTA—Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) will host a candlelight vigil—Hope for the Holidays, to encourage the community to come together and remember their loved ones lost to suicide.
“The holidays can be especially traumatic for survivors because they are bombarded with television, movies, commercials, and events that celebrate the joys of the holiday season,” explained WSCO Dean of Student Success Kathy Temple-Miller. “This event is a reminder to survivors that they are not alone and that support is available,” Temple-Miller added.
On Sunday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. on the front steps of the main building at WSCO, surviving family and friends can gather to draw strength from one another by sharing stories and remembering those they’ve tragically lost to suicide. Opening remarks will be given by WSCO President Dr. Vicky Wood. Those who attend are encouraged to bring a photo of their loved one for the memory table.
Important suicide facts:
- Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the US and the third leading cause of death for Americans 15 to 24 years old.
- Every day, approximately 125 Americans die by suicide.
- There is one suicide death in the US every 11.5 minutes.
- Resources for survivors are available at afsp.org/ive-lost-someone
The event is sponsored by WSCO, the Suicide Awareness Alliance of Washington County, and the Washington County Behavioral Health Board.
