Sarah Kirk and Supervisor John Foust make a few remarks during the event. Photo by Reena Singh.
Dozens of people came to Turner Park for an intimate Mother’s Day festival.
Becky Love Foundation’s inaugural Mothers for Mental Health fundraiser brought parents and children together to enjoy the weather, play in the bounce house and race each other in a 5K on Sunday.
The event was to raise money for Comfort Camps as well as raise awareness about suicide and sudden loss in the aftermath of Becky Love’s death in August.
“She would have been pleased,” said her mother, Sarah Kirk. “This was a great way to celebrate Mother’s Day.”
Becky, a mother herself, was 32 years old when she was found dead on a shooting range last year. About a month after her daughter died, Kirk and her family put her energy into the Becky Love Foundation to raise awareness about suicide and dealing with sudden loss.
Kirk said the event raised about $5,000, which will be donated to Comfort Zone Camp.
About 200 people showed up throughout the event, Kirk said. More than 45 people participated in the 5K and about eight walked the 1K. Additionally, another eight participated in the horse events.
The event boasted a cotton candy station, a bounce house and obstacle course, art station and even a visit from a local Fairfax County legislator.
“It’s sad what happened, but a lot of good is coming from this very tragic situation,” said Supervisor John Foust (D- Dranesville).
He mentioned that representatives in Richmond are investing in mental health services for next fiscal year’s budget.
“As a community, great people like Sarah and you are waking people up and making a difference,” he said.
A volunteer club from Langley High, a school that lost two students recently to suicide, sent about 10 students to help out with the event in the morning.
Many of the event-goers were family members, all sporting periwinkle shirts wishing Becky a happy birthday. However, there were many that came to support a friend in need.
“Sarah’s a friend of ours, and she’s so active in the community,” said Beth Keating, Great Falls, who came to the event with her own family. “Sarah tried to make a tragedy into something positive, and we just wanted to help. We really can’t wait to see this grow next year and in the years after.”
Kirk plans on making the event an annual one, but said she might hold it the day before Mother’s Day next year.
“We’re so pleased with everyone that came and the generous spirit,” she said.