I’m Jim Hart. My youngest son fell victim to suicide on April 27, 2013 after a failed 5-year relationship and a broken heart. In an instant my family’s life changed forever. Since that time, coping is our full-time job. The depth of grief is indescribable to those who haven’t lived through it.

Grieving and mourning Jimmy’s loss has taken a profound toll on our lives and left a chasm we try to fill on a daily basis. In an attempt to heal my heart after this horrible tragedy, I’ve chosen to start my path of healing through reflection and action. Spending precious time with Jimmy’s memory and listening to what was left unsaid are never easy but life without my youngest son is not an easy one to accept. Although I do acknowledge he is gone, it requires all my determination and energy to persevere. You see, my son was not done teaching me and I was not done learning from him. Learning lessons from him while helping others is my goal.

Making a difference while representing Jimmy’s life and death have been on my mind for several months. Jimmy was a wonderfully, warm physical presence who loved any activity involving endurance. Therefore, deciding at the age of 65 to backpack across the state of Missouri seems an appropriate endeavor. I specifically chose this endeavor to signify how important this walk is to me, my family, Jimmy and any other person enduring the loss of suicide.

My journey begins April 27, 2014. To our family, this date signifies the 1-year anniversary of Jimmy’s death and to me, the day I found him. Backpacking 300+ miles through the state of Missouri is something tangible I can do. Beginning at the Missouri /Kansas state line, following the highway until Clinton, Missouri, then switching to The Katy Trail, I will continue until it ends. Hopefully, this endeavor will give me time to find clarity.

Additionally, my hope for this backpacking event is bringing much needed awareness to suicide and sharing Jimmy’s story throughout the state of Missouri. I’m walking to raise money donated in Jimmy’s name to fight a tragedy that does not discriminate and has no boundaries. Furthermore, raising awareness and money to help combat suicide isn’t easy. However, if I can make a difference in one person’s life or a family’s then this event can be one more thing Jimmy teaches me because I’m not done learning….

Follow my journey and updates on American Foundation Suicide Prevention’s website and Facebook. Please help support my cause by making your donation to the AFSP

http://afsp.donordrive.com/campaign/backpackingforourJimmy

in Jimmy’s memory by clicking the brown or purple "Donate Now" buttons. My hope is that his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his huge heart during his life and after his death.

Or

Make checks payable to: Jimmy Hart Memorial Fund
Mail to: First Community Credit Union
2651 Old Muegge Rd.
St. Charles, MO. 63303


Thanks so much,
Jim