This Sunday In Bismarck – A Time Of Healing For Suicide Victims

Suicide is just plain tragic - for all involved. The one that is hurting takes his or her life and leaves behind those that will be haunted forever. One such victim is Mike Maples, a security guard for the refinery here in Mandan. Three years ago his 17-year old step-son Nicolas stepped away from his personal anguish and took his own life. Mike has acted upon that terrible day by doing something special for himself and many others.

Wish you were here ride for suicide awareness.

This scheduled first-time event will be July 2nd thru the 5th of next year. Dakota Kustomz - 2804 Memorial Highway this Sunday will be having a "Fill The Helmet" for the whole family - there will be a dunk tank, Lark's mascots will be there, and of course cool cars and bikes and FOOD. The whole purpose is to raise money for Mike's "Wish you were here ride for suicide awareness" Huge thanks to Beth and Travis out at Dakota.

Everyone is invited to ride along and show support for "OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK"

That is another important event Sunday as well - at the State Capitol. The hours are 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm -with the sole purpose of "Now, more than ever, it’s important to be there for one another and take steps to safeguard our mental health and prevent suicide". Mike will also be on-site for this one early on, and then he and riders from all over the country will leave Dakota Kustomz at 3:00 and loop around the Capitol, and head back - showing support for the "Out Of The Darkness Walk" - All riders can come along, for more info and register head here. Mayor Steve Bakken will be at the Capitol to give a speech for the "Out Of The Darkness Walk" event.

Healing and therapy for Mike and many others

This will be a special day for Mike and the many others that will come together as one. He told me that his event next year is something he has wanted to do for a while. When you lose childhood friends to addiction and loved ones to suicide, surrounding yourself with people that truly care will help ease the pain.