Warwick residents to host local conference for International Survivors of Suicide Day

WARWICK — Have you lost someone to suicide?

This Saturday, November 21, is International Survivors of Suicide Day, which is dedicated to those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

All around the world, survivors of suicide loss will come together to feel a sense of community, connect with others who have been through a similar experience, and help promote healing.

In this area, Warwick residents Rocco and Judy Battista, who are survivors of a suicide loss, will host a community centered event from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the end of the food court on the second floor of the Galleria Mall at Crystal Run.

At 1 p.m. they will show a 30-minute DVD program created by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention that features the personal stories and advice of other survivors and mental health professionals.

A special guest that day will be Martha Frame, a licensed clinical social worker and area coordinator for Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center Orange and Sullivan county community service programs.

Frame, a survivor of a suicide loss, has 22 years experience helping individuals and families cope with mental illness.

Following the DVD presentation, everyone is invited to meet others at the conference and join in other activities.

"We highly encourage you to experience International Survivors of Suicide Day in person," said AFSP Survivor Outreach Program Coordinator Judy Battista. " It is a rare opportunity to be able to look around a room and know that every person there inherently understands at least some of what you are going through. Join this powerful movement of survivors."

There is no charge to attend this Saturday event.

For additional information, call 914- 489-7402.

- Roger Gavan