A Northumberland family is turning the loss of a loved one into a push for greater support and connection for people affected by suicide.
Tattoos for Trauma is holding its Walk to End Suicide on September 12th, an event created in memory of David Glover, who died six years ago.
David’s mother, Sue Glover, describes him as a creative and caring person whose life was impacted by childhood trauma.
Glover says her own experience following David’s death showed her the importance of peer-led support.
That experience eventually led to an effort to bring dedicated suicide loss support to Northumberland.
New support program coming to Northumberland
Glover says she previously had to travel to Toronto to access resources, something she felt shouldn’t be necessary for people in Northumberland.
Tattoos for Trauma approached Northumberland Hills Hospital’s mental health department about creating a local program.
The organization says the resulting program was co-created with Northumberland Hills Hospital’s Community Mental Health Department and Ontario Shores.
Registration opened August 12th, with the first peer-led suicide loss support group scheduled to begin this fall.
Walk to End Suicide
The Walk to End Suicide grew out of Tattoos for Trauma’s previous community fundraising events.
Theresa Rickerby says the organization held large tattooing events in 2022 and 2023 before deciding to shift its focus this year toward the walk.
The event is free and barrier-free, with organizers encouraging people affected by suicide loss to attend regardless of where they are in their grieving process.
Registration begins at 10 a.m. at the Yacht Club on September 12th, with a sacred blessing circle involving Alderville First Nations elders scheduled for 10:30 a.m.
Rickerby says the goal is to create a safe environment where people can connect and share their experiences.
Professionals and peer-support workers will also be available during the event, with resources being shared with participants.
Rickerby says Tattoos for Trauma has always focused on raising awareness, building community and providing support.
More information and registration are available through Tattoos for Trauma.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
