The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is gearing up to host its third annual fundraiser at the American Turner Club, on Eastchester Bay, on Saturday, September 29 at 4 p.m.
Themed as a country-western night, the Whiskey’s Edge Band will be performing all the latest country hits while line dance instructor Adam Cherko will be doing what he does best for everyone in attendance.
AFSP member Patricia Brennan, a Throggs Neck mother who lost her son, Billy Brennan and nephew, Martin Grogan to suicide, organized the fundraising event in memory of the two.
Following the tragedies, Brennan became very involved in suicide awareness and prevention.
She began by getting involved in fundraising walks at Jones Beach on Long Island which then evolved into creating the awareness fundraiser at the Clarence Avenue venue.
“It was only after the fact that I saw how many other people are effected by this cause,” Brennan said. “We truly have been overwhelmed by the help we have received and so many offers to sponsor the event, it’s truly touching how many people are willing to join the cause,” Brennan added.
Even the American Turner Club felt inspiration from Brennan’s hardships and journey of moving on.
“We’ve all been effected by it,” said Deborah O’Hagan of the American Turner Club as she spoke of tragic statistics of suicide rates in America. “We felt that hosing this event for years was the right thing to do, as a neighborhood we pick each other up and take care of one another, we’re just happy that we can be apart of such a worthy cause,” she added.
In past years, as many as 120 people have showed up to the suicide prevention fundraiser. “We’re hopeful to make that number increase this year,” Brennan said. “Really what this is about is raising awareness, spreading information, and reminding people that they are never alone,” she added.
The goal that Brennan and the AFSP intend to reach is having suicide rates drop 20% by 2025. The foundation has invested over $3 million towards 29 different research studies in recent years. They’re also working on what they called a major innovation towards identifying those at risk of suicide.
Brennan has also been involved in educating many about suicide and how to prevent it.
She’s worked with schools and in many other places to help those in need, letting them know that there is always another answer.
The event will also have a 50/50 raffle, delicious food along with a cash bar. Tickets are $50 made in the form of donation and can be purchased online at event
Additionally, tickets can be purchased by calling either (347)-483-7556 or (718)-829-2016.
If you or someone you know is struggling, Brennan and the ASFP encourage reaching out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800)-273-8255 or text TALK to 741741.
