What too many people do not realize is that suicide is "stealing" our nation's young people. Suicide is the second leading cause of death on college campuses. It is the third leading cause of death among high school-aged students. Suicide is only a symptom of an mental illness. 1 in 4 Americans are affected yet less than 1/3 seek treatment. This is due to stigma. If this does not change, we will be losing more of our family and friends to these horrible illnesses.
A.I.R. with the help of Miki and other therapy dogs, is on a mission to educate youth that there is HOPE for healing. No one should ever be embarrassed or afraid to seek help.
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. May 19th is the anniversary of our son's death. He battled his anxiety and depression for over three years but lost the battle on one fateful morning. It is the day we have chosen as the First Annual Miki & Friends: Walk on A.I.R. It is an event to celebrate our pets and the contribution they make to our daily lives and overall mental health. It will be a day of education and awareness and Family Fun! It will be held at Mercer County Park, East Picnic Area, the same park that hosts the Trenton Kennel Club each year.
Activiteis planned for the day:
* 5K Timed/Certified Run
* Dog Walk* AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluations
* Therapy Dog International Evaluations
* Disc Dog Demos
* Pet Nutritionists
* Ask the Dog Trainer
* Blessing of the Animals and Much More!
Eukanuba has offered one year of free dog food to the highest fund-raiser!
Please feel free to check out our webiste AttitudesInReverse.org.
By the end of this May, we will have spoken to over 5,000 middle and high school students. Our hope is to reach 5,000 more by next year. Our mission is to educate, start conversations, reverse attitudes and SAVE LIVES!
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