More than 100 people attended a ceremony marking Suicide Awareness Month in September at one of the care sites of Ascension’s St. Mary’s Healthcare in Amsterdam, New York.
The event introduced an oak tree planted on the walking path at the St. Mary’s Healthcare Memorial Health Center campus to honor, respect and recognize those who have been lost to suicide. The campus offers primary adult and pediatric care, multiple behavioral health programs, a 160-bed nursing home, and related services.
The tree is identified by a stone marker engraved with the words, “Be the Voice – #stopsuicide.” Handwritten tiles at the base of the tree display the names and memories of those most impacted by suicide, and a nearby bench invites guests to stop and reflect. Local companies and individuals donated the tree, stone marker, tiles and labor to create the space.
Survivors of a Loved One’s Suicide (SOLOS), a support group, meets every other Wednesday at the St. Mary’s Healthcare Memorial Health Center.
