Wendy Parmley Writes About Healing Journey in 'HOPE AFTER SUICIDE'

Feb. 11 marks six months since we learned of the suicide death of one of our favorite actors, Robin Williams. We were all stunned and heartbroken. Since Williams' death, approximately 20,000 people in the United States have died by suicide (afsp.org).

Author Wendy Parmley understands too well the devastating effects of suicide. In her book, Hope after Suicide: One Woman's Journey from Darkness to Light, released the day after Williams' death, Parmley details her own healing journey following the suicide death of her mother nearly 40 years ago. She was 12 at the time, and her mother was just 31.

"As tragic as Williams' death is," said Parmley, "it has given us an opportunity to talk openly about mental illness, learn about ways to get help, and realize that suicide is no respecter of persons."

Parmley is on a crusade to help others understand not only the heartache of suicide, but also that there is HOPE - hope to save lives and hope to heal hearts. As a volunteer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and HOPE4Utah, she supports prevention and education efforts to reduce suicide rates.

Parmley also recognizes the need to unashamedly support those who must continue to live in the painful aftermath of suicide. She is currently working with HOPE4Utah to make more broadly available the tools, support resources, and survivor support groups for those suffering loss. Instead of casting judgment on those who have lost loved ones to suicide, Parmley encourages us to reach out in love and understanding - to share our hugs and our hearts.

"I know too well the feelings of loss, helplessness, and hopelessness that follow the suicide death of a loved one," said Parmley. "I also know there can be hope after suicide. There is light beyond the darkness."

About 'Hope After Suicide' - After her mother took her own life, Wendy Parmley learned firsthand the heartache, despair, and loneliness that accompanies suicide loss. Reinvent your definition of saved, perfect, and forgiveness as you read this true narrative of a woman opening her heart years after her mother's suicide and learn how to overcome any loss in your own life.

Test and expand your Broadway knowledge with our new game - The Broadway Match-Up! How well do you know your Broadway casting trivia?	Play the Daily Game, explore current shows, and delve into past decades like the 2000s, 80s, and the Golden Age. Challenge your friends and see where you rank!
How well do you know your Tony Awards history? Take our never-ending quiz of nominations and winner history and challenge your friends.	Can you beat your friends? Play today’s daily Broadway word game, featuring a new theatrically inspired word or phrase every day!