Daemen University and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention hosted the second annual Walk for Jenny, to help save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
The walk was held in memory of Jennifer “Jenny” McAlmont, who died by suicide in 2014 while she was a student at the university. During her time at Daemen, Jenny was a student in the health care studies program, served as a tour guide for the admissions offices, and was a member of the step team.
Members of the Daemen community along with Jenny’s mother, Lois Foster, gathered in the Yurtchuk Social Room on Thursday, October 19, where Foster remembered her daughter’s infectious smile and how she lit up a room when she walked in.
Participants were then given a purple flower as they started their walk to the Jennifer “Jenny” McAlmont Memorial Reflection Garden, which they placed at the memorial.
Foster urged anyone who needs help to seek it, so no other parents has to feel the pain of losing a child.
A variety of resources and support are available:
On campus, the CHIP Center offers free and confidential counseling services in person and virtually to students. Students can book an appointment online.
The 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, offers 24/7 call, text and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.