“Collateral Damage, Images of Those Left Behind by Suicide,” will be a book of portraits, website and gallery exhibition of people who have had loved ones die from suicide. When I was 16 years old (I’m now 44) my father died from suicide. Although I never hid the fact that my father took his life, I often felt that I was left dealing with my pain and recovery in solitude, social stigma and loneliness. Throughout my professional career as a Paramedic and Firefighter, I often saw the beginning of the same pattern in the suicide calls that I attended to. I so often found myself wanting to say to grieving and demolished family members, “I know how you feel.” This pattern leaves the survivors of today feeling the same way I did 27 years ago. It is my hope that the Collateral Damage project will begin to change this.
I invite and welcome all those who have lost a loved one to suicide to come forward to be a part of this project.
By coming forward, you will help to lessen the stigma of suicide, and begin a dialogue of healing.
All contributions are greatly appreciated. Monies will go directly to reversing the stigma and towards creating a forum of dialogue through the publication of the book as well as gallery exhibitions. We encourage you to support this project by making a donation. If you are interested in helping out in other ways, please contact Scott directly:
scott@leftbehindbysuicide.org
(807) 768-5217
Left Behind by Suicide Inc. is an Incorporated Not-for-Profit.
In addition to addressing the stigma and creating a dialogue on suicide, the Collateral Damage project is also about connection. Connecting those of you who are left behind to resources, information, and most importantly, to each other. We ask you to share your stories, thoughts and memories.
We truly believe that as we come together, we can challenge the stigma and facilitate healing.