Growing Support for Grief Recovery

RED BANK, N.J. - EntSun -- Monmouth County is set to welcome a groundbreaking addition to its mental health landscape as local nonprofits join forces to introduce Mary's Garden Media, a new foundation to enhance support for individuals and families navigating the profound grief of losing loved ones to suicide.

The public is invited to the official launch event of Mary's Garden Media on Tuesday, May 14, 6-9 p.m., at the Vogel, located at 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank. Hosted in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, a longtime provider of mental health support, this event is free and open to all who seek insight into grief resources, suicide prevention, and holistic mental well-being.

Highlighting the evening will be the nonprofit's premiere screening of the poignant documentary "Life After Loss: A Parent's Perspective on Losing a Child to Suicide," featuring Bob and Christine Moore of Fair Haven. Their personal journey about their son Jack exemplifies the challenges encountered in the aftermath of devastating loss.

Mary's Garden Media was co-founded by renowned Red Bank photographer Danny Sanchez and filmmaker John Decker, both intimately acquainted with the profound impact of suicide bereavement. Sanchez, reflecting on the loss of his wife Mary Yahara, remarked, "I wanted to find a way to honor Mary, to commemorate her life, and to extend a helping hand to our community."

Decker emphasized the scarcity of resources available for those coping with suicide loss, stating, "We aim to decrease the stigma around suicide. It's a different kind of grief and it's our hope to fill the vacuum."

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The nonprofit aspires to raise financial support to create a library of films that serve as therapeutic conduits for viewers, fostering solace, empathy, and the beginning of the healing process.

"We aren't just highlighting the struggles; we're showcasing the strength and resilience of the human spirit," Decker affirmed. "Together, we can transform stories of sorrow into narratives of strength and hope."

Bob Moore echoed this sentiment, sharing his journey of finding joy amidst grief. "It was a choice," he said. "I didn't want the grief to consume me. I didn't want it to be the thing that defined me." His wife, Christine, now helps promote mental health awareness and both will be at the event launch, lending their voices and experiences to the shared journey of health and resilience.

"If our story can help even one person, it's a win," Bob Moore said.

Laurie Goganzer, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, underscored the significance of community collaboration in suicide prevention and post-vention efforts. "We are stronger when we work together," she said.

The launch event will feature an array of nonprofits offering invaluable information and resources, including Stephy's Place, a support center for grief and loss that played an important part in the healing process for both Sanchez and Bob Moore.

Other participating nonprofits will include: CPC Integrated Health, Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, Monmouth Arts, Monmouth Rainbows, Ridge Road Run/RBR The Source, Rutgers Health/HOPES Program, Shore House, Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, Veteran's Affairs Suicide Prevention, and YMCA Counseling & Social Services.

Along with resources from the nonprofits and the premiere of Life After Loss, the evening will include a biopic on Sanchez and the story that inspired Mary's Garden, a message from Mary's Garden Media board of directors, a Q&A moderated by emcee Terrance Wall of Holmdel and refreshments.

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"We're thankful for our supportive community," said Susan Doctorian Kyrillos, a member of Mary's Garden Media board of directors. "We're looking forward to an evening of camaraderie, enlightenment, and empowerment."

About Mary's Garden Media
We're a 501(c) nonprofit dedicated to educating, healing, and inspiring those who struggle with tragic loss through the power of film and storytelling. Join us in cultivating life's gardens, nurturing hope, and embracing beauty in sorrow. Together, let's sow seeds of healing and growth for ourselves and others. Learn more at www.MarysGardenMedia.org. Follow our storytelling on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
For 150 years, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has been here for all – to empower youth and teens, improve health and strengthen community. Over the past five years, our Y has provided more than $5 million in financial assistance and subsidies to Y participants throughout greater Monmouth County. Our life-changing programs and services are anchored in eight communities: health and wellness facilities in Freehold Township, Old Bridge and Red Bank; an outdoor day camp in Wall; counseling and social service centers in Eatontown, Matawan and Middletown; a childcare center in Freehold Township; and integrated in over 100 schools in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace in 2023 and 2022 by New Jersey Advance Media, we're based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.