Columbia walk memorializes suicide victims - wistv.com - Columbia, South Carolina |

Columbia walk memorializes suicide victims

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COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - Friends, families, and co-workers gathered at Columbia's Riverfront Park Sunday to bring attention and focus to suicide prevention

It's estimated that every minute someone attempts to take there own life in America. Every 15 minutes someone follows through.

The event is called "Out of the Darkness." It's a walk the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention organizes to give survivors of suicide loss a chance to bring light to the issue.

Police officer Melron Kelly was there to represent two of his colleagues.

"Partly to keep their memories alive in our hearts and minds," said Kelly. "To bring awareness to police suicide and suicide in general."

AFSP estimates 34,000 Americans take their own life each year. The walk is also an effort to raise money for research and prevention.

Organizers hope to raise $44,000 from the event. If you know someone dealing with thoughts of suicide, call the United Way's Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 803-273-TALK.

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