It is vital that we continue to press this issue and we will continue doing so. With the help of supporters and organizers, as well as with the support of VA officials, state and national legislature, local and national media, we have had the opportunity educate the public and raise awareness regarding the the 22+ Veterans who die from suicide each day and to make a change! RELEASE:
My name is Matthew O'Dell and on August 22, 2014, I founded and held the first 22: TOO MANY Rally to raise awareness for Veteran Suicide. With the incredible help from organizer and supporters, we have been able to share this movement all over the country. As a veteran of both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, I know, all to well, the issues faced by our Veteran population. Because of Post Traumatic Stress, Homelessness, and suicide, there is a significant need to remind our heroes that they have not been forgotten and that our communities are there to support them and provide them the hope that they need to carry on. Since August 22, 2014, we have had a hundreds of people committing to support this movement and standing with us in cities all over the United States. Because of you, this month we will be doing things EVEN BIGGER! Here is an example of how much you have already done to raise awareness. WSMV - Channel 4, Nashville, TN
VIDEO: http://goo.gl/3OzYBt
WATE - Channel 6, Knoxville, TN
VIDEO: http://goo.gl/XQS6g1
WHNT - Channel 19, Huntsville, AL
VIDEO: http://goo.gl/40NQI3
Bowling Green Daily News, Bowling Green, KY
Article / Pictures: http://goo.gl/alSAab
Combined, we've had over 250,000 people share and respond to this movement. Here's what we have planned:
Who: A large group of military veterans and veteran supporters, legislators, VA Officials, City and State Officials
What: Raising awareness about Veteran suicide, PTSD, homelessness, and other stigmas related veteran's mental health. The signs we will be holding will read the following:
"I am a veteran"
"I support our military and veterans"
"I am a veteran who has contemplated suicide." "There are 22 veterans who commit suicide each day"
"There are currently over 57,000 homeless veterans who need your help"
"22: TOO MANY"
When: On the 22nd of EVERY month
Where: Various locations around the U.S. Why: We are tired of seeing our brothers and sisters give up. We are responsible to these men and women; heroes who have sacrificed so much. I will not leave a veteran behind...
I would be truly grateful if you would help us spread this awareness. With your help, we can truly be the wake up call..
