For the last 13 years those grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide or possibly at risk of taking their own lives have walked in solidarity as a community along Nanaimo's waterfront. (submitted/VI Crisis Society)

By Spencer Sterritt

Soles Remembering Souls

Suicide awareness and prevention walk a chance to grieve safely together

Sep 10, 2019 | 12:45 AM

NANAIMO — Organizers of a walk along the Nanaimo seawall want people to know there’s always someone they can speak to.

The Vancouver Island Crisis Society is hosting their annual Soles Remembering Souls walk on Tuesday, Sept. 10 starting in Maffeo Sutton Park.

Anyone who’s lost a person to suicide or is grappling with thoughts of suicide is urged to take part in the walk and meet others who might also be struggling and need someone to speak to.

Society executive director Lyndsay Wells told NanaimoNewsNOW though the subject matter can be morose, they want the walk to be an uplifting community event.

“We’re really trying to bring a community together to say ‘It’s okay to talk about suicide.’ We want to put a name and face on this so if there is someone who’s suffering in silence, they might feel brave or comfortable enough to reach out for that support.”

new mayor

Spring Mayoral by-election called in Ladysmith

9h ago

holiday check stops

Nanaimo motorists shine during province-wide crackdown

12h ago

targeted job action

Striking Nanaimo postal workers disrupt Purolator operations

15h ago

This year the walk is also focused on helping those who are struggling in silence, such as emergency responders, doctors or those suffering brain and head injuries.

“Often people living with these types of silent injuries are people in our communities who we would maybe look to for strength,” Wells said. “Because of that they might be less likely to reach out for the support and help that’s available.”

In her 22 years in the field, Wells said she’s seen an increasing need for more awareness about suicide risks, prevention and counselling.

“It’s the one job that takes you to every possible demographic because most people have been affected in some way by suicide, mental health, trauma or all things combined. Pain and grief don’t discriminate. They are universal things and it’s okay to talk about them.”

The walk begins at 11:30 a.m.

Anyone who’s lost someone is urged to bring a photo of their friend, relative or colleague and walk in their memory.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit