Out of the Darkness: Friends of St. Dymphna Hope To Bring Light

By John Leonard ’25

On Sunday, October 22, members of the Chaminade Family came together and joined over two thousand other participants at the American Society for the Prevention of Suicide’s “Out of the Darkness” Walk at Jones Beach.

Members of the Chaminade Family stop for a picture at the 2023 Out of the Darkness Beach Walk.

Students, faculty, alumni, and family members walked approximately three miles along the boardwalk to show solidarity with those who have lost a loved one to suicide and to demonstrate support for anyone suffering with mental illness. The American Society for the Prevention of Suicide hosts walks across the country to build awareness and open conversation around mental health. The walks also serve as fundraisers, providing the organization with funds to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

Ms. Hafner stands with two of the founding members of the Friends of St. Dymphna, Nicholas Russo ’23 (left) and John Leonard ’25 (right).


Chaminade’s participation at the event was organized by the Friends of St. Dymphna, Chaminade’s mental health awareness group. Among those who walked with Chaminade was Nick Russo ’23, a founding member of the Friends of St. Dymphna. The club’s namesake is the patron saint of stress, anxiety and mental well-being. Moderated by Mr. Giardina ’03 and Miss Hafner, the club’s goal is to provide students with the opportunity to attend lectures, events, and activities that raise awareness about and promote mental health.


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