Halifax Hosts “Walk to Remember” for World Suicide Prevention Day

A “Walk to Remember” dedicated to World Suicide Prevention Day is set to take place in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, on September 10, 2023. The event, which begins at 17:00 local time at the Sackville Lion’s Club, aims to honor those who have lost their lives to suicide.

Barbie Burkert, a key organizer of the event, shared her personal connection to the cause. Her youngest child, Nicole Burkert, faced mental health challenges from a young age and tragically died by suicide in 2017. Two years after her passing, while walking in a park, Burkert conceived the idea of the “Walk to Remember.” The inaugural event occurred on September 10, 2019, coinciding with the global observance of World Suicide Prevention Day.

The walk not only serves as a memorial but also fosters community connection. Following the first event, a local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) suggested incorporating a route along the Greenway Trail. Burkert then envisioned a rock wall where families could honor their loved ones. Participants can submit the names of those lost to suicide to be painted on rocks placed along the trail, symbolizing remembrance and support.

Burkert emphasized the importance of the walk in creating a safe space for discussing suicide, which remains a stigmatized topic. She stated, “It’s important that people come together because everyone needs to feel like they’re not alone.” This event aims to bring comfort and healing to participants, encouraging open dialogue about mental health challenges.

In addition to remembrance, the walk seeks to provide resources and support for individuals struggling with their mental health. Burkert noted, “We wanted to provide help, but we also wanted to give comfort, to bring people together from all communities.”

The “Walk to Remember” not only honors those lost but also creates a supportive environment for healing. Burkert reflected on the shared desire to keep memories alive, saying, “We all want our loved ones to be remembered.”

For those interested in participating or donating, contributions can be made via email at [email protected]. Additional details about the event can be found on the Sackville Suicide Walk to Remember page.

This community initiative highlights the collective effort to address mental health issues and the importance of remembrance, aiming to reduce stigma and foster understanding around suicide prevention.