ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – A community snowshoe hiking event will honor the life of a young boy who died by suicide last spring.
In memory of Tristan Dieterle, his family and friends are hosting a fun afternoon of snowshoeing.
The event will be Sunday, January 29 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. near the Westwood High School tennis courts.
It costs $10 per person or $25 for a family.
In addition to honoring Tristan’s memory, his mother, Jamie Dieterle, said the event will raise money for the Tristan Dieterle Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is directed to students at Westwood High School who work to build a positive school climate.
“We want a positive environment for all students because we know that sometimes students feel marginalized and it’s important that all students have a place to learn and go to school and be involved in activities that they feel safe and supported,” said Jamie Dieterle.
Jamie said losing her son this past year has ignited the desire to help anyone suffering or struggling in any aspect of their life. She said raising awareness of the signs of suicide and ways to prevent it may give a person the voice they need or a parent knowledge, and in turn provide the lifeline and support they need.