OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma (KFOR) – The Oklahoma City VA on Friday announced the 3rd annual SAVE Our Heroes Ride to raise awareness for suicide prevention among veterans.
The acronym SAVE serves as a quick reference when someone may be showing suicidal tendencies and contains important steps for suicide prevention:
S – Signs of suicidal thoughts should be recognized
A – Ask the most important question: “Are you thinking about committing suicide?”
V – Confirm the veteran’s experience
E – Promote treatment and get help quickly
“SAVE Our Heroes Ride is a movement,” said Kristen Melton, Director of Chaplain Services at OKCVAHCS. “We are calling on the community to join us in this important mission to save lives and support our veterans. Everyone is welcome. Motorcycles are not required. Two-, three- and four-wheeled vehicles can all ride with us on the trail.”
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Event details:
Time: 8:30 am
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Location: Oklahoma City VA Medical Center
921 NE 13th Street,
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
The event is scheduled to culminate with a memorial service at Fort Gibson National Cemetery, 1423 Cemetery Road, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.
According to organizers, participants will drive along historic Route 66 to honor fallen veterans and promote suicide prevention and mental health awareness. The ride is open to anyone who wants to show support for veterans, their families and caregivers.
“There’s a misconception out there that asking someone if they’re considering suicide doesn’t make them more likely to commit suicide. What it actually does is show them that you care about them, that you love them, that you see that they’re suffering and that you want to help. “There are so many different resources and organizations out there, including VA help and people who go the extra mile to make sure you have someone to talk to. It’s upsetting how many people out there think they’re alone – and I want them all to know that they’re not alone.”
OKC VA Chaplain, David Potter
To register, contact David Potter at 405-456-5138. Participants may also register up until the day of the trip.
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