“Here Comes the Sun” Event to Raise Suicide Awareness

By Michelle Terwilliger-Hathaway

From Issue 6: Spring 2010

Please join me in the third annual “Here Comes the Sun” poker/motorcycle run to help prevent suicide and reduce the stigma of mental illness. More than 90 Americans a day die by suicide.  That’s one death every 16 minutes―making it the fourth leading cause of death. I am not a biker but my brother was, and I participate in his memory: Bryan Terwilliger, 31, took his life on February 28, 2007, leaving behind a 14-month old son and shattering my family’s world.   

Sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Hudson Valley Chapter, “Here Comes the Sun” raises awareness and funds for educational programs and research. This year’s run, for riders and non-riders, takes place on June 5 (rain date June 19). Registration and free breakfast will be from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at East Side Bar & Grill, 624 Rte. 52, Walden. Riders depart from there at 11 am and, after a scenic two-hour ride, arrive back at the Grill. All attendees will enjoy a free hot lunch and an “after” party celebrating life.  There will also be live music and raffles. 

It’s important that people speak up, speak out and/or seek help, so if you’re a biker, ride in memory of someone. If you are not a rider, but have lost someone you loved, join me to celebrate life, reflect and remember. We are also looking for volunteers, event sponsors and donations of goods or services to raffle off.  $25 per rider/attendee or $40 per couple. Pre-registration is encouraged. Call Maria (914) 417-7993, or visit www.afsp.org.