On June 19th, 2014, 20-year-old Ryan Candice took his own life. Ryan was known as the nicest, most welcoming guy in the world, and a friend to all. He is truly missed by everyone.
But what many people don’t realize is that Ryan is just 1 of 35,000 Americans who take their own lives every year. In this world, suicide is a topic that makes people uncomfortable and no one wants to speak about it. This needs to change.
A group of Ryan’s close friends is finally making that change. MU senior, Alex Lindley, considered Ryan as a brother to him, but as close as they were, he had no idea he was suicidal. This is what inspired the idea.
“I want to make a film that not only honors Ryan and those who lost loved ones to suicide, but also educates the general public of the warning signs and risk factors associated with it.” Lindley said.
They want to try to eliminate the stigma associated with suicide and depression; the stigma and shame that keep many from seeking help. This documentary will also help them - Lindley and Ryan's close friends and family - heal.
“Our hope is that in starting the conversation and spreading awareness, we can help those suffering like Ryan and others,” said senior Claudia Rudelic, who is also apart of the group and was one of Ryan’s best friends said.
“Wake Up & Help Eradicate Suicide” is what they are titling this project. They want to educate on the most common suicidal warning signs, highlight and illustrate important suicide awareness and prevention methods, tell Ryan’s life story and document the journeys through the grieving process of those who were close to Ryan.
They created a GoFundMe page with the desire to raise money in order to make this project a reality. On the page they state that “we're a bunch of broke college students,” but that didn’t stop them. When they first started, their goal was $10,000 and in just over 10 days they have raised almost $20,000.
“With the incredible amount of support we’ve received so far, I think we're well on our way to accomplishing that goal.” Lindley said. Which includes over 1,000 shares on social media.
But donations are not just what they are looking for. They want help to spread the word, be referred to any directors, editors or videographers that could help, or to anyone who might be able to contribute meaningful interviews for suicide awareness and prevention, and also spread the word some more by sharing their page on Facebook and Twitter or email it to family and friends.
As I stated before, Ryan was just 1 out of 35,000 Americans who take their own lives every year. With the dedication of Alex Lindley and his team, their goal is to bring everyone together and turn this awful situation into a positive, inspiring one.
Suicide doesn't take the pain away, it just gives it to someone else. You are never alone and life is always worth living.
