“We are taking our tragic story and turning it into something beautiful.” — Sarah Spitler.
Many thanks to i understand love heals and Project #EAS, courtesy of the Spitler family, for their recent donation of over 300 blankets for Pine Rest patients!
The drive took place throughout the holiday season in memory of local husband and father Eric Spitler, who tragically lost his life to suicide in 2021. Members of the community were invited to donate new blankets and notes of encouragement to gift patients experiencing a mental health crisis.
On January 4, 2023, Eric Spitler’s family and friends gathered at Pine Rest to deliver the blankets. Present were Chief Nurse Executive Gretchen Johnson and Dr. Mark Eastburg, President and CEO, both of whom shared thanks for the family’s generosity and support. Sarah Spitler also spoke in memory of Eric and talked about fighting the stigma around suicide as well as resources available for those in crisis and/or struggling with depression and mood disorders.
“We are so thankful for the blankets and notes gifted by I Understand,” said Gretchen Johnson. “What a great way to honor Eric. These items offer a little piece of comfort and home to our patients who are working through their recovery journey.”
To learn more about this effort or to send an email of encouragement, please contact info@iunderstandloveheals.org.
