Thousands Join Suicide Prevention Walk Through D.C.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is leading an overnight walk through the nation's capital to raise awareness about suicide.
Organizers say 2,000 people will gather Saturday evening at George Washington University for an opening ceremony at 6:30 p.m. The Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk begins at 7:30 p.m.
Group spokesman Wylie Tene says participants will walk 16.7 miles. They are raising funds and awareness to develop suicide prevention programs and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
The American Federation for Suicide Prevention says about 1 million people make a suicide attempt each year, and about 38,000 died by suicide.
A rest stop is planned on the National Mall at 10 p.m. The walk ends at sunrise on Sunday morning at George Washington University.
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http://www.TheOvernight.org
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