Gr8ter Remembers Bert McKinney
So many of us have grieved someone who was taken from this world too soon. Today Gr8ter honors the life of Bert McKinney. Below is a message from his family who wish for just one more day with him. Their lives are forever changed by suicide.
“Those that knew him understood he had a mischievous smile, a laugh that was infectious and a heart of gold. He enjoyed football and betting against BSU anytime. Bert was always willing to help others, at times not thinking of his own safety or needs as that was the kind of man he was. He was larger than life, but also struggled with many of life’s challenges more than any of us will ever understand.
Everyone struggles in life from time to time, but one person’s struggles can be another person’s last. If you are someone you know struggles with seasonal depression or life’s ups and downs, reach out, listen, be present, it could help brighten the darkest of days.”
Top of Tamarack
On September 24th, Bert will be one of our many honorees at Top of Tamarack, Gr8ter’s mental health awareness and suicide prevention event. Our honorees come from all walks of life. Different paths, different experiences, different interests. And while they all may have lost their lives to suicide, it’s the powerful impact they had that unites them. Their lives had value. Their legacies are important. They had laughs that were contagious and smiles that lit up rooms. They were someone’s friend. They were someone’s family member. They were loved. We pick up the torch they left behind to ensure their powerful flames never go dark. Sharing memories of who they were and why they were so adored allows their light to shine on.
Join us on September 24th 2022 as we honor Bert and many more who were lost too soon at Top of Tamarack!
Help is 3 Digits Away
Your struggles are valid. There are people available to listen and offer support any time of day, any day of the week. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or self-harm, or struggling with mental health in any way, help is now just three digits away. You can call or text 988 for immediate mental health help. Please know that while the crisis line can be lifesaving for people thinking of suicide or self-harm, you don’t need to be at risk to use it. If you are struggling in any way with your mental health, reach out. Help is available.