Tyler's Voice group works to prevent area suicides

Dear editor:

We, Deantha Short, Kathy Wudyka and Terrie Petty (Tyler's Voice) are proud of the success of our fundraiser. We worked very hard and it paid off. We were able to help family members, contribute to funeral costs, as well as have some left over to go forward with our goal to re-establish a local suicide hotline number and to bring awareness and prevention techniques to this community.

There have been an alarming number of suicides in our small town in the past few months. At one time there was a local number available for any one wanting to talk or receive help with suicidal thoughts. It is my understanding that funds were pulled because of "lack of use." This is very sad.

We need to get it re-established as soon as possible and help people become aware of the signs of suicide. If we can save even just one life it will all be worth it.

We will be meeting with Cindy Huggins soon to discuss steps we need to take to accomplish our goals. Cindy has lived in Mountain Home for 35 years and has lost family to suicide. She holds meetings the third Tuesday of each month at Ratliff Law Office, 290 S. 2nd East St., at 7 p.m.

You can contact Cindy at 599-2188 if you have any questions.

Anyone wishing to donate for this cause please see Darla at Wells Fargo Bank in Mountain Home.

Terrie Petty