Upcoming event raises awareness about suicide through music, dance

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) – In 2018 more than 48,000 Americans died by suicide.

That’s according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Which is why two local organizations are raising awareness with dance.

The La Crosse Suicide Prevention Initiative and Active Minds of UWL are hosting Dance For Hope.

The 10th annual event includes multiple performances by area dancers.

Through music and movement, the dancers represent healing and hope.

This event has a special meaning for one family impacted by suicide.

“Being able to talk about suicide in public, to help eliminate that stigma alone, is a major step forward, because many people have certain myths about suicide that are not true,” said Sam Mahr, brother of Kaitlin Mahr, who struggled with depression, and lost her life to an accidental overdose in 2007.

Dance For Hope is on Saturday from 12 p.m to 4:30 p.m. at the UWL Student Union.

The event and parking are free.

For more information, click here.

wkbt