Local Event in Woodstock Honours Survivors of Suicide

Thursday, 21 November 2019 09:08

There will be a candlelight memorial walk in Woodstock to honour the International Survivors of Suicide Loss day. The free event is happening at the Smith-Leroy Funeral Home on Wellington Street this Saturday starting at 6:00 pm.

WOODSTOCK - Everyone is invited to a special event in Woodstock to commemorate the International Survivors of Suicide Loss day.

The free event is happening at the Smith-Leroy Funeral Home on Wellington Street on Saturday November 23rd starting at 6:00 pm. Organizer and Suicide survivor Vicki Travnicek says they will be doing a candle lit memorial walk and a tree lighting ceremony.

"We are going to do a candlelight service, we are planning a candle lit walk up to Dundas Street and back and we are going to do a tree lighting, we are also going to do a photo presentation of all those we have lost to suicide and in honour of them, we will be lighting a tree, that will be lit throughout the Christmas season."

Travnicek says they are hoping for a big turnout.

"We want all members of our community, who have been touched by the loss of a friend, a family member, a co-worker to suicide. We want everybody to know that we support them and we understand we need to celebrate the ones we lost and acknowledge that our community is really strong and supportive."

She adds they have about 80 people who will be featured in a special presentation.

"We are doing a photo presentation and if you want your loved ones photo included in that, you need to email us in advance. We hope that won't deter people from coming, we would love to know the numbers, so that we can be prepared and have a candle for everyone who comes. We are going to be celebrating with some music and a small ceremony and we want to know approximate numbers of who will come, but we don't want anybody to be deterred, you are all welcome, if you can hear my voice, you are invited."

It is too late to get your loved in the photo presentation, however you are welcome to still show up and join in on the festivities.