On November 13, 1982, my grandfather "Poppy", died by suicide. On March 9, 2022, my father, also "Poppy", died by suicide. My family, loved ones, friends and I are devastated. And we are not alone.
Suicide rates are on the rise in The United States. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. with 45,979 deaths in 2020. This is about one death every 11 minutes. The number of people who attempt or think about suicide is even higher. Suicide affects the health and well-being of surviving family, friends, co-workers, loved ones and the community.
Personally, I continue to struggle with the grief and trauma from both losses. The nagging question plays over and over in my mind, "Is there anything I could have done to prevent either or both suicides?"
I am doing something about it! I have rallied my family, friends, co-workers, and loved ones to join me in putting on the second annual Poppy's Run For Life!
So far we have donated $30,000 to the Montrose Center and $30,000 to Alexander JFS. We are determined to donate even more in 2024.
We are receiving support from the community and a large crowd of walkers and runners who will participate in the 5K race. Proceeds will again go to the Montrose Center and Alexander JFS Houston which offer suicide prevention and awareness.
- Caryn Honig, Founder & Race Director
carynhonig@gmail.com
