Candlelights and balloons for Jasmyn - Dubois County Free Press, Inc.

*Attendees took a moment to pray before singing “Happy Birthday” in Jasmyn’s memory.*

Friends, family and strangers gathered together to commemorate Jasmyn Lorey’s birthday at Redemption Christian Church on Tuesday evening.

The 17-year-old Jasper High School junior died by suicide on October 24.

Tuesday would have been her 17th birthday.

*Pink balloons, signifying Jasmyn’s favorite color, were released at the beginning of the vigil on Tuesday.*

*Bryce Simmons, a student from Northeast Dubois, and Garrett Pore, a Jasper High School student, watched as the balloons floated away.*

“The candlelight vigil for Jasmyn’s family last night was needed not only for Jasmyn’s family but for the community,” Kendra Nichols, organizer of the event and director of Locking Arms for Suicide Awareness, said. “Showing that we can stand together and provide support to each other while, continuing to show hope for others who may be struggling.”

*Jasmyn’s mom, Jayme Lorey (in pink) and friend Ambria Smith watched the balloons.*

Though many in attendance were Jasmyn’s direct friends and family, students from other schools who did not know her also attended the event. Nichols said this provided an opportunity to meet other teens in our community who opened up about their struggles growing up with suicidal ideation.

“I think that this not only accomplished hope for the family by surrounding them with other people who have also experienced their same loss, but it also showed others in the community that it’s OK to struggle and even through our struggles, we can still support one another,” Nichols said.

Resources

If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is available. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone
else. To speak with a certified listener, call 1-800-273-8255.

Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 74741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential.