What's Happening?
David Lawrence, a father from Council Bluffs, Iowa, has channeled the grief of losing his son, Sailor, to suicide five years ago into a dedicated mission for suicide prevention. September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, and Nebraska,
where Lawrence resides, ranks 12th highest in the nation for suicide rates, with 14.4 deaths per 100,000 people. Lawrence and his wife founded the organization 'Sail On and Fly High' after realizing they had missed warning signs in their son's struggles with school. The initial funding for their initiative came from funeral donations, which they chose to use to help others. To date, the organization has distributed 3,500 free 'calm kits' across the metro area. These kits contain small sensory tools designed to assist individuals experiencing panic attacks by providing a means to regulate and calm themselves. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of open communication about mental health, regularly checking in with his daughter, Maisie, and promoting the message that 'it is okay not to be okay' and 'it is okay to talk about not being okay.'
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for addressing the significant public health challenge of suicide, particularly in regions like Nebraska with high rates. By transforming personal tragedy into a community-focused mission, David Lawrence and 'Sail On and Fly High' are directly contributing to suicide prevention efforts through tangible resources like 'calm kits' and by fostering open dialogue about mental health. The distribution of 3,500 kits demonstrates a direct impact on individuals who may be struggling, offering practical tools for self-regulation during moments of crisis. Furthermore, the organization's emphasis on community involvement, such as the annual mental health walk, helps to destigmatize mental health issues and encourages a supportive environment. This effort is particularly vital given research from the University of Nebraska Public Policy Center indicating that adult men are the highest-risk group for suicide in the state, highlighting the need for broad-based prevention strategies that reach diverse demographics.
What's Next?
Sail On and Fly High continues its community engagement efforts, including an upcoming mixer on September 22 in partnership with the Council Bluffs Chamber. During this event, the mayor is scheduled to issue a proclamation honoring Sailor Lawrence and another young man lost to suicide, further raising awareness and support for the cause. The organization's ongoing work will likely involve continued distribution of 'calm kits,' expansion of their outreach programs, and sustained advocacy for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The annual mental health walk at Bayliss Park, which already attracts over 600 people, is expected to continue growing, reinforcing community solidarity and providing a platform for shared experiences and resources. These efforts aim to create a lasting impact by fostering a culture where mental health is openly discussed and support is readily available.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of David Lawrence transcends a simple news report; it embodies the profound human capacity to find purpose and create positive change in the face of immense personal loss. This initiative highlights the critical role that grassroots organizations and community leaders play in addressing complex societal issues like mental health and suicide. By openly sharing his family's experience, Lawrence is not only providing resources but also challenging the stigma often associated with suicide and mental illness. This personal narrative helps to humanize the statistics, making the issue more relatable and encouraging others to seek help or offer support. The 'calm kits' themselves represent a practical, accessible approach to immediate mental health support, acknowledging that small tools can make a significant difference in managing acute distress. Ultimately, 'Sail On and Fly High' is contributing to a broader cultural shift towards greater empathy, understanding, and proactive engagement with mental well-being.
