We are so excited the Ellsworth Co-Op and K-State Research and Extension are partnering to host the inaugural Fight 4 the Light Sept. 21.

The event includes a Ceremony of Light, followed by a glow run (or walk, for those not inclined to run).

Talking about those we know and love who have died by suicide is tough. It’s also courageous. And essential.

According to the Center for Health Statistics, death by suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in Kansas for 2022, the most recent information available.

Here in rural Kansas, it’s important to put it into perspective. According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

For too long, a stigma surrounded those who died by suicide. Those deaths were spoken about in whispers.

We need to stop whispering and start talking. We need to talk about mental health. We need to talk about the importance of resources in our rural communities. The importance of not whispering or judging when a loved one or acquaintance seeks counseling.

We don’t know the burdens of or journey another is on. We don’t know what struggles lie beneath their smile or simple “I’m OK.”

We applaud the effort to begin a conversation, and encourage residents to show up in droves to support the efforts to remove the stigma surrounding suicide.

Karen Bonar Publisher