The first annual POPPY's Run for Life 5k will take place this Sunday March 26, 2023, at 7:30 a.m. at Hennessy Park (next to Saint Arnold Brewery) in Houston, Texas.
The first annual Poppy's Run for Life 5k is an event that aims to honor and remember those who have died by suicide. The event is being organized by Caryn Honig, the founder and director of Poppy's Run For Life. Honig is passionate about raising awareness about suicide prevention and providing support for those who have been affected by suicide.
Caryn's life, as well as the lives of her family, friends, and loved ones, was forever altered by the suicides of her father and grandfather. Sadly, they are not alone. Suicide rates have been increasing, and it is now a leading cause of death in the United States. In 2020, there were 45,979 deaths by suicide, which translates to one death every 11 minutes. The number of individuals who attempt or contemplate suicide is even higher.
On November 13, 1982, my grandfather "Poppy", died by suicide. On March 9, 2022, my father, also "Poppy", died by suicide. My family, loved ones, friends and I are devastated. And we are not alone. Suicide rates are on the rise in The United States. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. with 45,979 deaths in 2020. This is about one death every 11 minutes. The number of people who attempt or think about suicide is even higher. Suicide affects the health and well-being of surviving family, friends, co-workers, loved ones and the community. Personally, I continue to struggle with the grief and trauma from both losses. The nagging question plays over and over in my mind, "Is there anything I could have done to prevent either or both suicides?" I am doing something about it! I have rallied my family, friends, co-workers, and loved ones to join me in putting on the first annual Poppy's Run For Life. It's a 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk. We are receiving support from the community and a large crowd of walkers and runners who will participate in the 5K race. Proceeds will go to the Montrose Center and Alexander JFS Houston which offer suicide prevention and awareness. -Caryn Honig, Founder & Race Director
Suicide not only affects the individual who dies by suicide but also the health and well-being of their surviving family, friends, co-workers, loved ones, and the community as a whole. It is crucial to support efforts aimed at increasing awareness, education, and prevention of suicide so that individuals struggling with mental illness can seek help. You can join in these efforts to make a positive impact.
The first annual Poppy's Run for Life 5k promises to be an impactful and meaningful event that will raise awareness about suicide prevention and provide support for those who have been affected by suicide. It is a chance for the community to come together and show their support for those who have lost their lives to suicide, and to make a difference in the fight against suicide.
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