In late 2012, the town of St. Clair, Missouri was mourning the the loss of three high school students who tragically took their own lives over the span of two months. In fall of 2014, nearly 900 miles away, Frederick, Colorado also lost three teenagers to suicide — all within three weeks. One film, 'Walking Man,' is bringing the two communities together.

In the documentary, mental health advocate Mark Norwine and his son, Eric, journey on a 200-mile walk across Missouri. Along the way, Mark and Eric must both face their own challenges, personally and as a family. The father-son team's walk led them to schools all across the state so that they could educate students, spreading the message that those struggling with mental illness are not alone.

That message struck a chord with Caitlin Larson, who had just started her job as a marketing associate for North Range Behavioral Health in Greeley.

'This is exactly what we’re trying to do,' she said. 'Break stigma; to let people know that help is available. Recovery is a journey, and we want to spread that message.'

In the aftermath of the tragedy that hit the Carbon Valley (Frederick) community last year, Larson knew that 'Walking Man' was something that needed to be shown. She felt it would provide the town with hope and healing to see St. Clair's story, and how the community came out on the other side.

'That Carbon Valley screening… it’s hard to say what might happen,' Larson said. 'I think that it's going to be a very powerful experience.'

North Range Behavioral Health has arranged for 'Walking Man' to come to Carbon Valley and Greeley. The two filmmakers were asked if they would like to be present at the Colorado showings, and Larson said she was pleasantly surprised when they immediately accepted. Mark and Eric will be at all showings in Northern Colorado next week on the eve of Mental Health Month.

For more information on Mark, Eric and their 'Walking Man' story, visit walkingmanmovie.com. The showing is free, however due to limited seating, please RSVP if you would like to attend 'Walking Man.'

Greeley:

Tuesday, April 28, 5 p.m. at Kress Cinema and Lounge. RSVP here.

Wednesday, April 29, 5 p.m. at Kress Cinema and Lounge. RSVP here.

Carbon Valley Community:

Thursday, April 30 at 5 p.m. at Carbon Valley Park & Recreation District in Frederick. RSVP here.

 

 

 

 

 

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