Suicide loss survivors to find comfort, healing at Jan. 25 event

Survivors of suicide will find comfort and support at a special program on Saturday, Jan. 25.

Presented by the nonprofit organization Kevin’s Song, Surviving Suicide — A Journey of Healing and Hope, will focus on healing after a suicide loss and the grief that accompanies a suicide loss. The program runs 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at St. John’s Resort in Plymouth. Registration is $40 and includes breakfast, lunch and beverages.

It is the conclusion of the Kevin’s Song three-day annual Conference on Suicide, which brings together educators, mental health professionals, first responders, clergy, suicide prevention advocates, veterans, students, business and community leaders as well as the public, survivors of suicide loss, and attempt survivors and their family members. This year’s forum puts a special emphasis on life and the need to cultivate and nurture an environment and culture where everyone experiences and embraces a life worth living.

“Suicide prevention is very focused on those who have died, those we have lost,” said Kevin’s Song Co-Founders John and Gail Urso. “This is an important focus, and we need to acknowledge these losses. But we also need suicide prevention to focus on the living as a poignant reminder of the importance of fostering a compassionate and supportive society.”

Saturday’s keynote presenters include:

• Dennis Gillan — A suicide loss survivor, his discussion will cover coping mechanisms and strategies for supporting one another. Participants, many of whom will be survivors of such loss, will find common ground and connect with others in ways they may not have imagined. Additionally, participants will gain insights into the importance of self-care.

• Dennis Liegghio — A suicide loss survivor, he will lead an immersive, interactive, and unique session where attendees will learn about the vital role that art-making plays in coping with grief and loss, and how to implement a practice that can open doors to healing.

• Gwen Kapcia — A longtime professional grief counselor, she will look at how our culture and upbringing play a part in our grief journey, provide tools for survival and hope for healing.

The day also will feature a panel of survivors of suicide who will share how they have navigated their loss.

Following the survivor presentations, attendees will have an opportunity to meet privately in group support sessions facilitated by mental health professionals or attend a grief workshop facilitated by Jane Reiter, BFA, MFA. Guests may also visit the Memorial Forest, a comforting spot to remember and honor lost loved ones and offer solace to those left behind.

Visit www.kevinssong.org for more information.