Auburn couple walking for suicide prevention

CJ Twomey

AUBURN — John and Hallie Twomey of Auburn will participate in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Out of the Darkness Overnight on Saturday and Sunday, June 26 to 27, in Boston. The goal of the 18-mile walk, from sunset to sunrise, is to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention.

"We are walking in honor and memory of our beloved 20-year-old son CJ who took his life less than two months ago. Our family is simply devastated by this tragedy. We miss him and his amazing smile more with each passing day. If, through this walk and the accompanying fundraiser, we can help prevent another family from suffering the loss of a loved one through suicide, then our son will not have died in vain," they said.

Proceeds from the walk will support a variety of programs including distribution of the foundation's new educational film on teen depression titled "More Than Sad: Teen Depression" and the accompanying film for teachers that helps them recognize suicide warning signs and risk factors as well as how to refer students for help. Both films aim to reduce teen suicide by addressing the leading cause, depression.

Participants in the overnight event agree to raise at least $1,000 each to walk, however, Team CJ's goal is to raise $25,000, said Hallie Twomey. To help the team reach their fundraising goal or to get more information about the walk, call 888-The-Overnight or visit the team website at www.theovernight.org and click on "support at participant."