LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — Hundreds gathered at Peaks View Park for the "Out of the Darkness Walk" to honor loved ones lost to suicide and to raise mental health awareness. The event held a special significance for Claire Steger, as it coincided with the anniversary of her best friend Tim Perry's suicide, which occurred ten years ago. Friday would have marked his 29th birthday.
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Steger reflected on her loss, stating, “My best friend, like an older brother to me, his name is Tim Perry, he passed away by suicide. And it was the most life-changing thing that has ever happened to me.” She disclosed that she had participated in a previous walk three months before Perry's death, motivated by a friend, Joy, who had also faced a loss.
Participants shared their reasons for attending, many of whom wore beads to symbolize personal losses and struggles. Sara Bonner explained her presence at the event as an effort to offer hope to others dealing with similar issues. “I come to spread hope that somebody else may be in that same situation,” she said, emphasizing the importance of simple check-ins among friends.
The event highlighted that suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, and in Virginia, those in crisis can reach out to the suicide hotline at 988. Attendees stressed that openly discussing suicide and mental health helps reduce stigma and encourages seeking support.
“Everything is becoming less taboo the more we talk about it,” Steger noted, recognizing that acceptance fosters an environment where individuals feel safe to seek help. Bonner added, “It’s OK to not be OK. It’s OK to say I need help because that’s actually a sign of strength.”
The walk emphasized the importance of community support, with Steger noting, “We just need our community to know they have our support.” Funds raised from the event will support research, advocacy, and educational programs across Virginia.