MUSKEGON, Mich. — More than 100 people came out to Hackley Park for the 10th annual Muskegon Remembrance & Suicide Prevention Walk on Tuesday. The community remembered loved ones who have died by suicide.
This is Ginger Beckwith 9th Suicide Prevention Walk. She's attended ever since she lost her 22-year-old daughter and said this event means a lot to her and her family.
"With my daughter, the day before we went shopping, she was fine and she was clowning around in the store. The next morning, I get a call that she's no longer here. So, yeah, it's it just blindsides you. Definitely changes your whole life," said Beckwith.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in Michigan. D'erika Nichols is the co-chair of the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Muskegon County that coordinated the event. She told 13 On Your Side that this event is needed in the community.
"I had a niece that spoke a couple of years ago that attempted suicide. My daughter has attempted suicide. I had thoughts of suicide. So when you think about events like this, it's kind of like I'm not the only one," said Nichols.
Nichols said you never know what someone is secretly battling with and she urges people to check in on their loved ones.
"So it's just a simple hey, how you doing checking in with someone, and then you have resources if you detect this or maybe having some suicidal thoughts, maybe in a crisis situation, say, hey, call this number 988, they'll get direct they'll have direct access to a therapist that can, kind of like, navigate them to where they need to go," said Nichols.
Beckwith also said it's important to value every moment you get with your loved ones.
“Cherish every moment you have with your kids and your family, because it could be a brother or sister, you never know, you know,” said Beckwith.
More resources and support can be found here.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, know there is help available to you. The Michigan Crisis Access Line offers 24/7 help and answers calls to 988. You can also text 988 for help.