“This blanket drive is a powerful example of how we support individuals and families after suicide loss … This is what community looks like. This is what healing in action feels like.” – i understand love heals.
For a fifth year in a row, Pine Rest was the grateful recipient of hundreds of blankets and handwritten notes of encouragement donated through ‘i understand love heals’ and the Project #EAS blanket drive, held in memory of Eric A. Spitler, a local husband and father who tragically lost his life to suicide in 2021.
Since that loss, Eric’s wife Sarah and their children have dedicated themselves to honoring his legacy by saving lives one blanket at a time, inviting members of the community to donate new blankets and messages of hope for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
On Monday, January 5, members of the Spitler family and leaders from ‘i understand’ gathered at Pine Rest to deliver the blankets. Leaders and team members from across our organization were in attendance and expressed their overwhelming gratitude.
“For patients discharging from our hospital, the transition can be challenging,” said Gretchen Johnson, DNP, MSN, RN-BC, Pine Rest’s Chief Nurse Executive. “Receiving a blanket may seem simple, but it carries something deeper – comfort, warmth and a tangible reminder that those we serve are cared for and not alone as they take the next steps forward.”
During the gathering, Sarah Spitler spoke powerfully about the journey she had her family have embraced as they grieve, remember and honor Eric through Project #EAS, which year-over-year sees growing community support for their suicide prevention awareness message and annual blanket drive.
Kasie Kaufman, Executive Director from i understand, reflected on the power that simple acts of kindness can have to make a lasting difference, outlined ways to combat the stigma surrounding the discussion of suicide and encouraged those who are struggling to seek help.
Pine Rest is deeply thankful for our continued Project EAS partnership with i understand and the family of Eric A Spitler. The blankets and notes of encouragement donated will be gifted to individuals discharged from our care, offering a continuing reminder and reassurance of the support and love found in the community we serve.
