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To the Editor:

Thank you, Northeastern North Carolina, for being part of the movement to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

As part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Northeastern NC Out of the Darkness Walk, held virtually on Nov. 13, I am overwhelmed by the support of our community.

Thank you to all those who participated. Thank you to the volunteers who spread the word and made it happen. Thank you to our local sponsors: Trillium Health Resources’ One Community Program, Elizabeth City State University, Bankers Insurance, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, Vidant Chowan Hospital, Julius Star Tattoo Gallery and Eastern Carolina Radio stations 105.7 Dixie and 102.5 The Shark.

Like many, I walk because suicide has affected me personally. In 2014, I lost my dad, Lloyd Gene Chappell, Sr., to suicide. Since then, I have dedicated my time to educating others about suicide prevention by working with the AFSP-North Carolina Chapter.

The support of my community means the world to me. Your support helps us ensure that mental health is looked upon in equal importance to physical health and continues to bring hope to those affected by suicide.

Please know, it’s not too late to donate via AFSP.org/NortheasternNC. To date, we are just $700 shy of meeting our $9,000 goal by Dec. 31. Please consider a year-end tax-deductible donation for our mission.

Again, thank you for your continued support!

John Clingman Chappell

Tyner, NC