Event in Smithton aims to raise awareness for veteran suicide rate
For Robert Prah, like many veterans, the number 22 is difficult to comprehend.
“For me to put 22 in perspective …” Prah says, his voice trailing off.
“When you think about how one life impacts so many other lives. Then try to think about 22 — so many lives are impacted by one suicide.”
According to a 2012 Department of Veterans Affairs study, on average 22 veterans a day commit suicide, the result of post traumatic syndrome.
“Even one is unacceptable,” Prah said. “I couldn’t imagine 22 people — and that’s every day.”
Prah said a classmate he played football with at Yough High School committed suicide more than a decade ago. About three years ago, a California University of Pennsylvania suicide took his life, both the result of post traumatic syndrome, Prah said.
“Being able to talk about it helps,” Prah said. “Being able to open up and talk with people. They go on on a daily basis. That stress just adds up.
“We have to understand what these folks are going through and see that they get the services they need — and take that number down to zero.”
With a goal on raising awareness, the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of Team Red, White and Blue will host a Run as ONE event at the Smithton trailhead on April 16.
This is the second year for the event in Smithton, but the fifth overall nationally. It is also held on military bases around the world as well.
The 5k run/walk is being held In honor of Marine veteran Clay Hunt, an original member of Team Rubicon who took his own life after battling PTS and depression.
The event is free, but preregistration is requested and can be done at www.teamrwb.org/get-involved/events/event-listings/2016-run-as-one.
Smithton American Legion Post 790 is providing flags.
Along with Team Red, White and Blue, the event is being organized by Smithton American Legion Post 790 Commander David Primm and his wife, Kim, along with Team Rubicon and The Mission Continues.
Team Rubicon unites the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams.
Team Red, White and Blue’s mission is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity.
The Mission Continues empowers veterans who are adjusting to life after the military to find purpose through civic action.
“Close to 100 participated last year and we hope to reach or exceed that number,” Kim Prim said.