The recent very public death of a veteran on the streets of our hometown has awakened an entire community to the pain not only of one man, but to the reality that many are seeking hope and healing and often are not sure how to find it.
We often hear that time heals, yet according to “The Grief Recovery Handbook” by James and Friedman, “It is what you do in the time that will help you complete the pain caused by loss.”
Many individuals have called or emailed me over the past 10 days asking what they can do to strengthen the community. My response: get the training that is saving lives. Skills in mental health first aid and suicide intervention do make a difference. Together we can build resilience in our community and help restore the hope of those who are hurting.
Some very sleepless nights — Being less than 100 yards from veteran Kyle Lovett the day he took his life 11 days ago has brought on many sleepless nights for me.
I was immediately called on by the chief of police to activate LOSS Team protocols, visiting with the police personnel and later that evening with Kyle’s parents. It was an event that spurred me in the reality that I must continue in the fight to save lives and train as many as I can to do the same. Many have asked how I handled the message that I gave at his memorial service: Learn more.
Training on the way — We have several training opportunities scheduled over the next several months. Listen Learn Lead will be offered in Peachtree City on Feb. 9. Other cities include Lithonia, Winder, Nashville, Richmond.
AFM to host Georgia’s first LOSS Teams Conference — On Aug. 15 and 16 in Peachtree City the Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors will bring hope and healing to the community. Individuals who have experienced loss or want to learn ways to help are invited to participate in this event. Mental health professionals and law enforcement personnel will also receive CE credit.
Thank you for your support and your interest in the work of Armed Forces Mission. Together we are building resilience and restoring hope for those who are hurting.
Kenneth Koon
Executive Director
Armed Forces Mission
ken@armedforcesmission.com
