The Hike for Hope - Elizabeth Mattera Foundation

At 15, my daughter Elizabeth Ann Mattera took her own life, instantly bringing my family to their knees. While this was devastating to my family, this was not my first battle with a family member and suicide. My journey thus far has been met with a total of 6 family suicides, starting with my father and with the latest being our oldest daughter Elizabeth. The mission statement for The Elizabeth Mattera Foundation is to assist families who have lost a loved one to suicide and mitigate/prevent suicide by way of community outreach and social programs. My best friend, Tim Uncapher has set forth on the Appalachian Trail with a mission to hike through 14 states which total over 2180 miles! Funds raised during this audacious feat will go directly toward the foundation's mission to bring awareness to the suicide epidemic and end suicide.

This photo is of Elizabeth; she would have turned 22 last month.

There isn't a day that goes by where we do not think about how much we miss you and love you.

For more information, please visit The Elizabeth Mattera Foundation

The handsome gentleman in the photo is my best friend, Tim.

Tim, I can't thank you enough for being there for my family over the years, especially in the darkest of times. Our prayer is that you will find inspiration and courage throughout this journey during your hike, knowing that the funds raised will change lives!

In closing, I want to thank every donor from the bottom of my heart. Your contribution will assist those who need it most, the surviving families, and those battling suicide ideations.