An estimated 500 people gathered at Library Mall for the first annual UW-Madison Suicide Prevention Walk Saturday afternoon, which raised over $20,000.
The UW-Madison Suicide Prevention and UW Psychology Club organized the walk to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and promote awareness around the Madison community.
Signs featuring statistics and personal stories bordered the three-mile course running through the Lakeshore Path.
Many participants wore T-shirts or arm bands supporting suicide victims they know personally.
Performances by a hip hop dance artist, as well as acappella groups Tangled Up in Blue and Jew-Op, preceded the walk.
UW-Madison Student Albert Luciani spoke about his personal experiences with depression at the walk's kick-off.
Spirits were high despite the grim topic—Luciani cracked jokes during his recount of his depression after several family members were diagnosed with cancer.
""I found out then that God had wanted me around for a reason,"" Luciani said, ""And now it's time to use my experience to help others.""
UW-Madison Dean of Students Lori Berquam addressed how pressing the issue of suicide is on college campuses.
""Every life is worth living,"" Berquam said to the crowd.
Berquam reminded the attendees of the health services available to students on campus and stressed the difference people can make by working with each other.
""Together, we are an army that can address suicide,"" Berquam said.
—Kelly Kaillen
