In February of last year, I announced to my friends and family that for most of my life, I presumed I would die from suicide. It isn't how I wanted to die, but I thought that it was inevitable. That one day, I would use up all of the strength that kept me alive in the past, and I would succumb.

It was frightening to discuss such things, but I did it in order to raise money for suicide prevention. My discussions paid off in many ways. I raised $1422 for the cause, but just as importantly, I discovered that nearly everyone has a connection to suicide and/or depression.

Suicide is the ultimate complication of depression, a medical condition which is among the most treatable of all mental health conditions. Clinical depression affects more than 20 million people in the United States each year, and yet it remains one of the most stigmatized health problems in our society. To discuss my own experience with depression leaves me feeling exposed.

Fortunately, I did seek treatment. For a long time, my goal was simply to be happy one percent more often than I was sad. I'm proud to say that I have achieved, maintained, and surpassed that goal. I don't know how I will die, but I am confident that it won't be the result of suicide.

Living a life without the burden of depression feels like starting life over, this time with endless possibilities. It is like coming out of darkness when you have forgotten what the light is like. When you hear about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Out of the Darkness Overnight 18-mile walk, you will know this is an organization that understands.

Last year, I walked over 300 miles to train for this event and I will work every bit as this year to help raise funds for suicide awareness and prevention, research on depression and suicide, and support for those who have survived the loss of a loved one by suicide.

At sunset on June 26, 2010, I will begin an 18-mile overnight walk through the streets of Boston to raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. I have committed to raising a minimum of $1000 in order to participate, but my personal goal is $1,500. I hope you will be motivated to help me reach my goal.

My real-life journey out of the darkness did not happen overnight, but it is my intention that what I do over the course of one night will enable many other people to find the light that I have found.

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