Dear Fellow Residents,
I would like to bring to your attention next week’s Second Annual Wings of Life – Harrison Strong Suicide Awareness Week. Hosted in collaboration with the Paul Michael Donahue (PMD) Memorial Foundation, the week is dedicated to raising awareness and preventing suicide by educating and bringing our community together on this critical issue. You can view the schedule of activities and events here.
Suicide is a national public health crisis. In 2021, it was the second leading cause of death among individuals ages 10 to 14 and 20 to 34. That same year, for people ages 10 to 24, the likelihood of dying by suicide was as high as dying by homicide.
Sadly, these statistics are reflected in our small community as well. On Dec. 7, 2022, Paul “Paulie” Michael Donahue, a beloved 19-year-old Clearview student-athlete, life was tragically lost to suicide. Recognizing this national epidemic and seeking to channel their energy in a positive manner, his family established the Paul Michael Donahue Memorial Foundation, in Paulie’s honor. The PMD Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to support discussions on mental health and suicide in our local community, while increasing prevention and awareness efforts.
Last year, the Donahue family came together with the Blazek and Matter families—area residents who also lost sons, Brian (Blazek) and Andrew (Matter) to suicide—to organize an awareness event during National Suicide Prevention Week in September. In partnership with Harrison Township, Wings of Life – Harrison Strong Suicide Awareness Week took flight, a week dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention, with educational activities, discussions, and events.
The week culminated with the Wings of Life 5K/1 Mile Walk, inspired by Paulie Donahue’s love for cross-country running and track, followed by the Wings of Life Community Event—a gathering with food, live music, and family-friendly activities at the American Legion. With nearly 800 individuals attending the inaugural Wings of Life 5K Run/1 Mile Walk and Community Event, and thanks to overwhelming community support, the PMD Foundation will be presenting a donation at this year’s event to Clearview Regional High School to provide mental health screenings for all students.
I invite you to join with fellow members of our community for education, activities, and gatherings during this year’s Second Annual Wings of Life – Harrison Strong Suicide Awareness Week.
