Community unites for suicide prevention in Agawam

Millions of people in the US have been affected by suicide in some way. 22 News reporter Claire Overton was in Awam earlier today as people gathered to share their loss and raise awareness for suicide prevention to save lives. >> The three hardest words for any human being to say are also the three most courageous. I need help. The American Society of Suicide Prevention bringing together hundreds of people to raise money for suicide prevention efforts while showing support for one another. >> My real hope is someone who might be struggling, right? Someone might think about calling the hotline 988. Someone might ask someone for help. And if that we can do that with one person, one, it's a beautiful success. >> There was also a bead ceremony. Each color beaded necklace representing something different, including the loss of a child, the loss of a friend or relative, or even green beads to show a personal struggle or attempt. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. And in the state of Massachusetts, it's the 16th leading cause. Everyone here at the walk wants to help change that statistic and support those who are struggling. >> We have to keep each other up and help each other out. Paul Baitman attending the walk with his support system after he lost his husband Warren Flebot. >> Warren, we were together 20 years and we were married for about three and then you know he took this path which has been very difficult for me and every everyone in the family but I have an amazing support group. So that's >> the began each and every person encouraging those struggling to seek help as they are loved and not alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can call or even text the hotline at 988. working for you. Claire Overton, 22 News.