Bloomington Meadows puts on Hero for Zero 5k

Bloomington Meadows Hospital was host to its second annual Hero for Zero 5K Friday.

Put on with the help of the Monroe County Suicide Prevention Coalition and the National Action Alliance for Zero Suicide, the race aimed to spread the word about suicide prevention.

It took place at Emmanuel Baptist Church’s 5k/10k track. More than 150 people were in attendance, and all proceeds went to suicide prevention services, according to a press release.

The race was put on as a part of Mental Health month.

People from across southern Indiana attended. Some invested in the race and others invested in the cause, according to a press release.

John Kirts, a student at Eastern Greene High School, finished first in the race, with a time of 19 minutes and four seconds.

Bloomington resident Pamela Faerber, who became an advocate after losing her son to suicide in 2011, spoke at the event.

She stressed the importance of being a hero and reaching out to those suffering from depression who may be vulnerable to suicidal thoughts.

“Today is your day to be a rescue hero for suicide prevention,” Faerber said.

Sarah Zinn