Hamilton runners gather in support of suicide prevention

A run was held in Hamilton on Sunday to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

The “Running for Rachael” event is held in honour of Rachael Stacey, who passed away from depression and suicide at the young age of 18.

Participants gathered at Limeridge Mall for the five-kilometre walk or run that kicked off bright and early at 8 a.m. on Sunday.

Money raised in the run will be put towards prevention, intervention, and healing programs for those affected by mental illness.

Each year, nearly 4,500 Canadians will die by suicide, which equates to nearly 12 people every day. For every death by suicide, 7 to 10 survivors are significantly affected by the loss.

Running for Rachael plays a vital role in supporting the city-wide work of suicide prevention by bringing the community together in hope, help, and healing.

In last year’s event, the run raised over $35,000.

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