September 30th 2020, John and Michelle Lupo went through what no family should go through. Their son, Richard Lupo II, passed away unexpectedly from suicide. On, September 30th 2023 they will be holding their 3rd annual Ride for Richie as motorcycles were one of many passions in his life.
Suicide is 100% preventable. Through mental health awareness and helping those who need help get that help they need are just two ways we can help prevent suicide. Did you know, back in 2021 alone, there were 48,183 deaths due to suicide? In total, that is about one death every eleven minutes. This isn't even the half of it. Again in 2021, almost 12.3 million American adults seriously contemplated suicide.Then another 3.5 actually had a plan to carry out a suicide plan. Then another 1.7 attempted to commit suicide and lived. Statistics showed that for every suicide death there were 3 hospitalizations for self harm, 8 emergency department visits related to suicide, 38 self reported suicide attempts, and 265 people who seriously considered suicide and this is all in the pas YEAR! This is not okay! This is a much bigger issue that needs to be taken care of and that is what John and Michelle Lupo are trying to educate the community about. During the benefit, there will be someone from the AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention).
In 2021, both John and Michelle created this ride in honor of their late son, Richie. Each year, this benefit seems to supply something new to the event. The first year the ride occurred, it was just the ride itself. Last year, they added in the food and the raffles. Smokey Legends, located at 3732 State Rte 26, Glen Aubrey, NY 13777, supplied the food last year and will be again this year! This year, they are working on getting music for the event. Currently, they are reaching out to see if there is anyone who would be interested in providing a basket for the raffles that will be happening during the benefit. The raffle and food is open to anyone. You do not have to ride in order to attend. This is for the entire community.
So, the question you may be asking is, how can I help? Well, that can be answered by Michelle. Her phone number is 607-205-7354. If you go to Facebook, there is a group page dedicated to the event called Ride For Richie ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/412043580290758 ) This year, they are hoping more cars and bikes come out to join them. Any bike can join. There will be a stop where they will meet any cars that want to ride along. The cost to take part is by donations.
If you are interested in providing a basket or certificate for the raffle or to donate please contact Michelle. She can provide PayPal, Venmo and/or cash app.
If you are interested in the barbecue the cost will be $15.
More information will be provided on the group page and down the line as they are still working on the ride agenda. Currently, the start and end location for the ride is 15 Brown St in Binghamton.
If you or a loved one is in the middle of a mental crisis you can reach out by calling or texting at 988 or you can chat online at 988lifeline.org For more information you can also go to AFSP.org .
Comments