WICHITA FALLS ( KFDX/KJTL ) — On August 12, Kym Cullar lost someone close to her heart: her brother Bryan Kirk.

Now, a month later, Cullar is organizing a walk in his memory to raise awareness for the suicides that take place every year and how to prevent them.

"I feel like there's still a big stigma with mental health," Cullar said. "And my brother and myself are both psychiatric nurses, and I just want the community to be more aware that it affects everybody."

The message Cullar wants to spread the most with the walk is that help is available for everyone experiencing depression. For those with loved ones experiencing depression, there are steps anyone can take to help, like checking in often or even just lending an ear.

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"My brother struggled with depression for many years, many, many years. But the last few months, I think, were the hardest for him," Cullar said. "The counseling, the support is out there, and people need to be aware of it and not be afraid to ask."

Cullar is partnering with Midwestern State University professor Dr. Wendy Helmcamp. They hope the Suicide Awareness Walk on September 28th becomes an annual event, inspiring others to get the help they might desperately need.

"There's so much depression and anxiety, and there are so many mental health issues that I'm so excited that we're having this event so we can spread awareness. Because this is something that's really close to my heart," Helmcamp said.

The Suicide Awareness Walk will start on September 28th at 8:30 a.m. in the Sikes Lake parking lot. All proceeds from the event will go towards a scholarship fund set up in Kirk's name to his alma mater, Midwestern State University.

Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with depression, it is never too late to ask for help by calling or texting 988 .

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