SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Everyone’s story related to suicide can help prevent someone else from doing it.

That was one of the messages of the annual “Out of the Darkness” walk Saturday at the UIS Student Union, organized through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Illinois Chapter (AFSP). Some of the 250 people did so in teams, while others walked by themselves.

Rachel Rodriguez is the local walk’s chairperson.   She lost her dad more than a decade ago to suicide, and says she never would have she would have to go through that grief and pain again.  Unfortunately, though, she has.

“Last year, when I stood here as your walk chair, I share my dad’s story with you.  I never imagined that when I returned to this walk in 2026, I’d be carrying another loss with me,” said Rodriguez.  “Since then, I lost my uncle, my godfather, to suicide as well.  I wish more than anything that I didn’t have another name to carry with me today.”

Rodriguez says, however, that loss has only served to strengthen her resole about the work that AFSP does.

“To save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Tammy Bush, AFSP Illinois Chapter board member.  “We work toward the mission through education, advocacy, research, community programs, and by supporting individuals and families who have been impacted by suicide.”

Families like those of Nancy Martin’s “Team Matthew,” the team named after a cousin of hers.  She talked about the beads each walker was given — representing any potential group impacted by suicide:  veterans, family members, friends, loved ones, those in the LGBTQ+ community, or if they inflicted self harm, among others.

“If you’re holding beads up, take a look around.  You are not alone,” said Martin.  “Each one of you here today is representative of our dedication, our commitment, and our strength as a community.  We are united in our goal, and determined to bring suicide prevention ‘Out of the Darkness’ and save lives.”

While the Springfield walk had set a goal of $46,000, more than $35,000 raised, which was more than 2025, and Rodriguez said that was the real goal.  Donations, though, can still be made.

She said she’s learned that there are many ways you can help someone who may be thinking about suicide, but one of the simplest ways can be by being there for someone, and saying something like, “You matter to me.”