International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day in Cleveland

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (ISOSLD) is an event in which survivors of suicide loss and those who have survived an attempt come together to connect, encourage, and find a sense of hope through their mutual experience of loss. 

This year, Removing The Stigma will offer its 1st annual International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event, on Saturday, November 19, 2022.  We have designed a unique program for this day.  The theme of the project is "A Day to Remember."   The program will begin with a short presentation, followed by individuals having the opportunity to share memorable stories of loved ones.  Guests will enjoy a hearty, healthy light meal as they prepare for an afternoon of painting. They will have the opportunity to create a memorable keepsake, through our “Paint & Remember “ activity. This is derived from the popular “Paint & Sip.”  The program will end with a moment of silence and balloon release as we remember those we love. Removing The Stigma and our guests end the day alongside new friends.

 Limited participants.  Youth who have lost a loved one or friend who has died by suicide are welcome to come with an adult.

After will have reached our monetary goal for the "A Day to Remember." event project we will move forward with the following:

1. Secure and pay the event planner
2. Secure and pay the event venue. 
3. Pay the Art Specialist.
4. Pay the keynote speaker. 
5. Design, print, and purchase the event brochure
6. Purchase the event deco items.
7. Order for specialty balloons 
8. Contact guests who have signed up for the event, and offer them a list of the food choices available.
9. Send out a zoom invite to volunteers for a meet and greet.
10. Follow up with volunteers and provide them with details, training, and instructions for the event, and address any questions they may have. 
11. Send the guest the confirmation email with their requested food choice, and details and instructions for the day of the event such as (directions, parking, and a list of suggested items to bring to the event.
12. Pay, and set up delivery, for the boxed lunches.
13. Pay and secure purchase of the coffee, and beverage items
14. Meet and organize any last-minute details concerning the event and provide each team member with their roles and responsibilities for the day of the event. 
15. Send thank you emails to those supporters.  
16. Prepare a video presentation for the event.
17. Prepare welcome bags for guests.

 Due to the explosions of death by suicide in the last decade, along with the effects of the pandemic, the number of survivors has increased as well. When someone losses a loved one who has died by suicide the feelings they experience are sometimes referred to as “left behind grief.”  This type of grief always comes with  many questions and emotions; such as “why, feelings of guilt, as well as the sudden shock of a life gone too soon.”  

This leaves survivors feeling lost, and alone, in turn perpetuating the cycle of depression, suicidal ideation, or suicide. This event is to support those who have lost someone who has died by suicide or has survived an attempt.  In a compassionate, safe space, where they can share stories, memories, tears of pain, and confusion, within a community of people who may have walked the same journey, but on different paths. They leave with a new sense of hope, healing, and meaningful relationships.