‘Out of the Darkness’: More than 200 people in Cedar City take part in walk to fight suicide

Written by Jeff Richards
October 1, 2023

CEDAR CITY — Dozens of people took part in Cedar City’s annual “Out of the Darkness Walk” to fight against suicide on Saturday morning.

Participants hold up strands of beads in memory of loved ones during Cedar City’s annual “Out of the Darkness Walk,” Cedar City, Utah, Sept. 30, 2023 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

As the participants made their way from Main Street Park up the trail that goes along Coal Creek past Canyon Park, many wore T-shirts or carried signs and other items in memory of loved ones lost to suicide. 

Some wore strings of beads around their necks, with the various bead colors signifying a particular relationship or some other kind of meaningful connection.  For example, red symbolizes the loss of a spouse or partner, silver is for military members and first responders, while blue is worn by those who simply support suicide prevention efforts.

Walk chairperson Bri Talbot said the event attracted 220 registered participants and raised over $18,500 on behalf of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. 

“By showing up today, you guys are all sending the message that mental health is as real as physical health,” Talbot said as she welcomed those in attendance.

“You’re sending a message that reaching out for help is the strong thing to do,” she said, adding, “And you’re showing others that suicide, which is currently the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S., can no longer be swept under the rug. Suicide is a health issue that affects all of us.”

Cedar City’s event came one week after Washington County’s 12th annual walk was staged at a park in Washington City.

Informational graphic showing what bead colors signify. | Image courtesy of AFSP, St. George News

“By joining us, you’re part of a national movement,” Talbot told those gathered. “You’re not just walking alongside others you see beside you today, you’re also walking alongside nearly a quarter of a million people across the country who are also walking to fight suicide.” 

Added Talbot:

By walking with us, you’re honoring the memory of the loved ones that we’ve lost. Your being here today also allows for advocates across the country to do their work of fighting to pass legislation that will save lives, like increasing funding for the 988 suicide crisis lifeline and ensuring an equitable continuum of care. Together, we’re making real and lasting change.

The event’s top three fundraisers were recognized for their efforts. They were Cassie Steiner, Frank Bright and Jordan Simmons. 

Additional donations are still being accepted via the event’s page on the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s website.

Note: If you or someone you know is in danger because of suicidal thoughts or actions, please call the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit the 988Lifeline.org website.

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeff Richards, a native of Salt Lake City with family roots in Panguitch, lived in Moab for 20 years before joining St. George News in 2017. Jeff is a longtime journalist and secondary school teacher. He and his wife Penny are the parents of five daughters. They also have three young grandsons and one granddaughter. Jeff and his family enjoy swimming, camping, sightseeing, reading, and taking pictures.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @stgnews@moabjeff@stgnewssports

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