A Day of Healing, Hope, and Connection AFSP Walk in Palm Beach, 2025
This past Saturday, we had the honor of being a community partner at the AFSP Out of the Darkness Walk in Palm Beach. The day was absolutely beautiful, with blue skies, cool breezes, and sunshine that seemed to wrap around us like a gentle hug. Just hours before the event, I received the news that my book, Grieving You, had been approved for publication. Surrounded by love, remembrance, and resilience, I made the decision to launch Grieving You right there at the walk.
It was a day of tears, gratitude, and heartbreak, yet one that was deeply healing. Standing among others who have loved and lost reminded me once again that even in grief, we are never truly alone.
Throughout the day, parents who had lost their children stopped by our table, each one carrying a story, sacred, raw, and filled with love. They shared their sons’ and daughters’ names, showed us photos, and pressed small treasures into our hands so we would remember them, too. One mother gave us white bracelets engraved with her son’s name, Valentine, and the numbers 143. She explained that “143” means I love you, a family tradition passed down for more than 70 years. Her face softened as she spoke, shifting from sorrow to pride as I promised her I would share Valentine’s name on my blog on Monday. So today, we say his name out loud: Valentine. Valentine, you are remembered, you are loved, and your story continues.
Another mother reached into her purse and handed me a small glass heart after sharing stories about her child she lost 11 years ago. To anyone else, it might seem like just a trinket and knick-knacks... but to us, these gifts are sacred. They carry the stories, the grace, and the love of those we miss so deeply. Every memory, every item, every word spoken keeps their light alive.
That’s what makes the AFSP walks so powerful. They bring together survivors of suicide loss, mental health advocates, and those walking in support… these people are from all different paths, sharing one thing in common: LOVE. Our stories may differ, but the ache, the hope, and the strength that unite us are the same. In those moments, surrounded by others who understand, we find community and a sense of peace, even if only for a while.
If you have never been to an AFSP walk, I encourage you to visit www.afsp.org and find one near you. Your presence, your voice, and your compassion make a difference. Together, we can help break the silence and shed light on those who are still struggling in the dark.
My book, Grieving You, was born from that same place, of remembrance, love, and hope. It’s now available on Amazon in paperback and eBook formats. All proceeds from this book go to In Her Name to promote positive mental health and suicide prevention.
Best Regards
Dr. Michelle Boodoo @ In Her Name
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Support is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.