This fall, more than 75,000 people from across the country will participate in one of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s “Out of the Darkness” Community Walks, including one in Birmingham, Alabama. People walk to raise awareness of depression and suicide, they walk to honor loved ones, and they walk to raise funds for research, education, and survivor support programs. Last year, thanks to our generous supporters, the Birmingham Walk ranked 5th in the nation with 1335 walkers and raising almost $130,000! This year, the 6th Annual Birmingham “Out of the Darkness” Community Walk will take place on Sunday, November 4, 2012 at Heardmont Park. Registration will open at 1:00 pm and the walk will begin at 2:30 pm. To register go to: www. Afsp.org/Alabama and select the Birmingham Walk. There will be a survivor area staffed with counselors and walkers will be able to post pictures of their loved ones. Complimentary refreshments will be available. Heardmont accommodates strollers and wheelchairs. Leashed pets are welcome. Suicide is a serious national health problem. It is estimated that close to one million people make a suicide attempt each year and that every 15 minutes someone dies by suicide. Untreated depression is the leading cause of suicide and more than 19 million people suffer from depression each year. Depression is treatable. For every three murders, there are five suicides. According to the most recent statistics, in 2010, in the state of Alabama there were 667 suicides and 411 homicides Suicide takes an enormous toll on family, friends, co-workers, and the entire community. Please walk to prevent suicide and save lives.