Stephanie, Serendipity & Skylanterns. www.starsofhopefestival.com

The day of the Santa Shuffle was December 6th, 2012. It was cold, but not too cold. About 30 of us joined together in the Jewel/Osco parking lot in Yorkville and slipped into the Santa suits I had in a box in my trunk. 

We waved at cars and people passing us. Our destination was to talk to River City Roasters for cocoa and cookies and then return. This was a fundraiser for Suicide Prevention Services. www.santashuffle.org

Some of the Santas I knew, and some were people I was meeting for the first time. Stephanie, and her kids Lora and Parker, I was meeting for the first time. We didn't have a long conversation. I think we mostly laughed at the silliness of the experience of walking along Rt. 47, doned as Santas. 

In posting all of the pictures on Facebook and tagging everyone, we became friends. I wondered who she had lost, or if she was just a supporter of a great cause. 

I learned she had lost her brother, David Bishop, to suicide 12 years ago. He was one of three siblings, with Stephanie being the oldest. She also has a sister named Heather. 

In planning the skylantern festival for Yorkville 2013, I had a vision of incorporating a local survivor and their story into the festival. It was important to me to truly show that this festival (aside from being wonderful and beautiful) is deeply meaningful. 

I asked Stephanie if she was willing to share her story and journey. 

She agreed with a smile. I explained I had visions of a newspaper article, and connecting with WSPY for TV and Radio. In addition, maybe a blog. 

She was completely on board and ready to share. 

Our first piece was Radio at WSPY. She spoke so eloquently. About SPS, about David. Here is a clip: http://youtu.be/f8nFvH8Z2XI

We went to a park a few days after and she shared details surrounding the time her family lost David. I couldn't help but have tears tumble down my cheeks- It hurt to know my friend had experienced such tragedy. That even after 13 years, you could feel the sting so clearly. 

Next, I nudged Stephanie to blog. She did and it was simply wonderful. http://yorkville.patch.com/blog_posts/stephanies-words-85a35020She navigated her story and her life in words so beautifully. 

On May 22, I finally got to meet Stephanie's sister, Heather. We gathered at WSPY to do a TV show. Heather is a bright light and beautiful gal. To see the two of them interact and talk about the skylantern festival and being survivors was especially amazing. Here is part 2 of the TV show: http://youtu.be/u7eMa5uvaLg

I applaud Stephanie and Heather for their candid sharing. It comes straight from the heart in such an honest and pure way. The courage it took touches my heart. 

Stephanie had someone respond to her blog. A girl who had known David and had been his friend. She spoke of how 2 years after Stephanie lost David, this girl had lost her own brother to suicide also. The girl was consoled by Stephanie's words in knowing that she is not alone. It was so powerful to read. I kept thinking- this is working. She is reaching people. 

That leads us up to today. Just FIVE days from our skylantern festival. The energy is building. It's fantastic. 

Stephanie, you are absolutely amazing. I am blessed to know you and lucky to call you my friend. EVERYONE- when you see her at the festival, please hug her. Her bravery and words are paving the way for others. Thank you so much for your gift of courage. 

All proceeds go to Suicide Prevention Services. 

What: Stars of Hope sky lantern festival
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013
Where: Campbell football field, near 800 Game Farm Road, Yorkville
Event website: www.starsofhopefestival.com
Facebook page:www.facebook.com/starsofhopefestival

Those wishing to participate can reserve a sky lantern for a $20 donation at www.starsofhopefestival.com. They will be available for pick-up at the event.

Organizers also would like to thank the following sponsors: Horwitz Horwitz & Associates, Allstate Agent Jeff Dziedzic, Dan Koukol- Candidate for Kendall County Clerk & Recorder, Yorkville Junior Women's Club, Sense of Samadhi Yoga Studio, Jerry & Jessica Bannister, Karma Skin & Massage, Scott & Heather Gryder. 

About Suicide Prevention Services: Suicide Prevention Services of America is one of only seven organizations in the United States devoted to saving lives and restoring hope through prevention, intervention and postvention. Suicide Prevention Services of America (SPS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing and eliminating suicide and suicide attempts through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Support groups, training, and counseling are available. Help is near. The organization was founding in 1982 as a support group for survivors of suicide. (http://www.spsamerica.org)