Health Promotion Administrative Assistant Jessica Williams is more than happy with the turn out at the Light the Way World Suicide Prevention Day Walk held at CFB Shilo on Sept. 10. Programs and support resources can be obtained through Health Promotion. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

The way was definitely lit and brightened with more than 100 people gathering for the Light the Way World Suicide Prevention Day walk at CFB Shilo on Sept. 10.

Participants walked together, tying yellow ribbons to fences in remembrance and honour of those dealing with the effects of suicide.

After the traditional land acknowledgement, CFB Shilo Health Promotion Administrative Assistant, Jessica Williams said, the First Nations mental wellness framework reminds us of the importance of belonging, meeting, purpose and hope.

“It encourages us to shift the conversation from crisis to healing and from despair to empowerment,” she said.

“Today, like many people across Canada and the world, we gather to raise awareness about suicide prevention. We are here to remember and honour the lives lost to suicide, comfort those who grieve, and to show support to anyone who might be struggling.”

Williams said the walk is designed to show that no one is alone and there is a network of support always available, reminding people to turn on their porch lights as a symbol of hope and solidarity.

Captain Victoria Miles, one of the Base’s chaplains, opened the commemorative walk with a blessing, saying that the day is for remembering those who have real strength but “walked through deep shadow” on a “path that grew too dark to navigate.”

“This morning we express gratitude to you, who have known the long night – the night that stretches endlessly in which hope flickers like a candle in the wind and darkness feels heavier than possible to bear.”

“In this moment, we stand with the broken-hearted, the weary caregivers, the ones who carry stories too heavy for words. May this day provide evidence for you that you are not alone. May this walk be a gentle witness that darkness does not have the final word, that light, even though it seems distant, can find its way in through a kind word, a shared memory, and a steady presence — not to fix, but to love.”

“Today, going forward, may you feel the warmth of community, the strength of solidarity, and the quiet courage of those who walk beside you. May you experience light that endures, bringing peace to the journey, grace for the grief, and love that meets you where you are,” Captain Miles said.

Acting Base Commander Major Melissa Marshall addressed the crowd on behalf of the Base Command Team and said the event was a significant one.

“Approximately 12 people die each day by suicide, [making the numbers] approximately 4,500 deaths by suicide every year. Suicides are three times higher for men [compared] to women. Suicide is the leading cause of death among youth and young adults from the ages of 15 to 34.”

She said something that can make a big difference in a person’s life is just reaching out.

“We never know what type of day someone is having. If you haven’t heard from someone in a little bit, do a check-in … a simple ‘Hey, how are you. I haven’t heard from you in a little bit,’ could just be enough to change the trajectory of someone’s day. You never know how much of an impact that can have on someone.”

“For those of you who may struggle with thoughts of suicide or [suicidal ideation] or have peers or friends who are struggling, just please rest assured you are never alone in your battle, and we are here to support you. Let’s not wait until it gets beyond the point. If you are struggling with mental health, there is always someone here, and please just know you are never alone.”

More than 105 participants gathered at CFB Shilo on Sept. 10 to participate in and support the World Suicide Prevention Day walk. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

Participants of the World Suicide Prevention Day Walk at CFB Shilo tie yellow ribbons to the fence in solidarity and support for those affected by suicide. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

Hands tie a yellow ribbon onto the fence at CFB Shilo in support of those affected by suicide at the Light the Way World Suicide Prevention Day walk on Sept. 10.(Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

A participant of the World Suicide Prevention Day walk at CFB Shilo ties a yellow ribbon on Sept. 10, in memory and in support of those affected by suicide. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)