DORR, Mich. — After the loss of his son in 2022, a West Michigan man is hoping an event he helped organize will save the life of someone else.
"He had the biggest smile and the biggest heart out of anyone ever," said Dave Johnson. "Very adventurous young man, he loved hunting and fishing."
That's how Dave Johnson describes his son, Rikko, who died by suicide.
Months later, in the following spring, Rikko was playing with his band at the Dorr Moose Lodge. There, he met Phyllis Johnson.
The two bonded over their shared experience of losing a loved one. Phyllis also lost a step-daughter to suicide.
"It was that night I met Phyllis here, when we were playing. I was getting emotional talking with her," said Dave.
That's when Dave and Phyllis decided to host the first Strummin' with Suicide in 2023.
"So to take what we've gone through and a lot of other families, to be able to create something that can bring awareness, if we can save a life, and that's the goal, so no other family has to suffer," Dave said.
Strummin' for Suicide Awareness is Saturday Sept. 21 at the Dorr Moose Lodge from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
It benefits suicide awareness charities
Last year, organizers of Strummin' for Suicide Awareness say they donated money raised to charities, many of which benefit veterans who may be struggling.
Organizers say they donated to Guitars for Vets and 92 for 22 last year.
Guitars for Vets helps veterans experiencing PTSD by giving them guitar lessons, making a creative outlet for them. 92 for 22, a Michigan charity, started as a 92-mile walk from Comstock Park to Cadillac to raise awareness for veterans PTSD and suicide.
If you'd like to donate to Strummin' for Suicide Awareness you can either attend the event Saturday, or send in donations here:
Dorr Moose Lodge #2541, 4204 20th Street, Dorr, MI 49323.
EIN: 91-2015146
Memo: Strummin
