Sunday, October 6, 2024
After Kara Yocom lost her 14-year-old son to suicide, it became her mission to bring awareness to bullying, mental health, and suicide.
Yocom’s son, Isaac Bueno-Yocom, took his own life on Aug. 2, 2015, after experiencing bullying at school.
“He came home very upset; I had no clue he even knew what suicide was. I started L.I.V.E FEST for that reason,” she said. “I want to educate and bring awareness to the community. If I didn't know, I know there are others who do not know.
Now, she uses her son’s story to help other parents and the community to recognize and bring awareness to the signs of bullying and suicide. She said that it is important to educate people on mental health.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People who have experienced forms of violence, including bullying, have a higher suicide risk.
“I hope to reach the community on the importance of reaching out to help parents know how to speak to their child about suicide,” she said.
The purpose of the event is to spread awareness about the effects of bullying and provide resources for parents who are concerned about their child’s mental health.
She will host her third annual L.I.V.E Fest event at Freedom Park in Gatesville on Saturday, Oct.19, which will begin at 10 a.m. and is free to the public.
The event will feature informational booths from various organizations, as well as guest speakers, performers, family-friendly activities, and a comedian. Vendors will also present items to sell that bring awareness to the cause.
There will be an obstacle bouncy house for the kids as well.
“The impact I hope to make is awareness to both bullying and suicide and how mental health plays a role in both,” she said.
“My main goal is to bring awareness at a family friendly event, and to reach the community on the importance of it,” she said. “I don't want other parents to live this life, and I want others to reach out.”
