By Julie Johansen
A recently organized group in Emery County is working to support anyone who has lost a love one to suicide or who struggles with suicidal thoughts. The group is currently 10 strong and has organized several activities since its inception.
A Suicide Survivors Day event hosted several guest speakers who talked about their experiences surviving the suicide of loved ones. A guest speaker, Taryn Parkins, addressed participants.
During the holidays, the group sponsored “Candy Drops,” a program where group members visited random houses and left inspiring messages at their doors along with a treat. In February, a swimming activity at the Emery Aquatic Center was sponsored by the commissioners. On March 22, an Out of Darkness Walk was attended by more than 40 people, including participants from Carbon County. This walk and dinner took place at Huntington Lake where literature on suicide prevention was given to everyone in attendance.
This group acts as a support group and listening ear to those who need a friend.
The group, sponsored by the Emery County Sheriff’s Office and Emery County Progress, has had attendance by many, including community members as young as 12 years old.