LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – In cities across the country on Saturday, well before the sun came up, early risers took part in a 5K Walk for Hope.
It’s aimed at raising awareness about suicide and mental health.
“The coming out of the darkness here is actually beautiful symbolism here. There is light, there is hope. And we want to spread that hope, let them know we’re out here and we do care,” said Linda Brannigan.
The Solace House in New York has given that hope to those grappling with depression. The counseling center started the Solace Sunrise Walk in 2015 in an effort to reach those in the shadows and reduce stigma surrounding suicide.
“I personally lost a lot of friends to suicide and depression,” said Bobby O’Byrne.
A friend of Bobby and Fallon O’Byrne runs the Solace House. The couple was inspired to bring the Sunrise walk to Lexington for the first time this year.
“We hope to have people here today that maybe didn’t have anybody else to talk to. Or maybe wasn’t excited about getting up this morning and has something to go to, and meet people they might not have met before,” said Fallon O’Bryne.
Among those showing their support today was Fallon’s mom, Linda, who traveled from New York to be here. Three years ago, she lost her brother to suicide.
“This is part of our healing. But also we do want to help people, and let them know there is help out there, and that people really really do care,” said Brannigan.
The proceeds from the event are going to the Solace House to help expand its services.
