ESCANABA — End The Silence, a depression awareness and suicide prevention walk, is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12. As the nation is still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the committee decided to change this year’s event to a virtual run/walk for the safety of all participants. The event will still be held at the end of National Suicide Prevention Week. Money raised from the walk provides funding for The Delta County Suicide Prevention Taskforce.

Registration fees are $25 per person and $10 per child up to 16 years old. Registrations must be received by Aug. 25 to secure a free t-shirt. All who register by Aug. 25, will be entered into a drawing for a two-night stay at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

Registered participants can pick up their t-shirt from 8 a.m. to11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the Ludington Park Pavilion. Participants are asked to keep social distancing rules in mind when they arrive. During that time, there will be bucket raffles and a table for information and resources on suicide awareness and prevention available.

Because the run/walk is being held virtually, the event can be completed at the location of the registered participant’s choice. Participants who share and tag End The Silence Walk on social media will be entered to win prizes. These prizes were purchased as “thank-yous” to some of the local businesses that have supported the mission over the years and give back to the community.

“We understand that this year’s event will look very different than years past, but we still need the community support as we strive to bring awareness to the growing problem of suicide. Now more than ever, especially with many dealing with isolation during this pandemic, we need to show our support for those who are struggling, let them know it is OK and to end their silence,” said Nicole Potokar, End The Silence Walk coordinator.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 47,000 people die by suicide each year. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all ages. It is the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 34 and the fourth leading cause for ages 35 to 54. Suicide is preventable and is a disease that affects the whole community. Family and friends left behind from someone who completes suicide can leave themselves at a higher risk of suicide or emotional problems.