30 Days of Love, a Lifetime of Purpose: Reflecting on Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026

By La Toya Kenyetta Bond

As I reflect on September 2026, National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, my heart is filled with gratitude, love, and a renewed sense of purpose. What an incredible month of advocacy, service, meaningful connections, and opportunities to spread hope!

On March 2, 2020, my life changed forever when my beloved father, Herman McKalpain Jr., died by suicide under very tragic circumstances. His death became the beginning of a journey I never imagined traveling. Through my grief, I discovered a deeper purpose: to honor his life by spreading love, raising awareness, and reminding others that they are never alone.

Throughout September, I had the privilege of participating in several meaningful initiatives dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness. I launched my 30 Days of Love — Love Somebody on Purpose campaign, encouraging others to intentionally extend kindness, compassion, and encouragement to those around them. My message was simple: We never know what someone may be going through, and a small act of love can make a meaningful difference.

One of the most memorable moments was appearing on WDIV Local 4 News in Detroit, where I shared my personal story and discussed the importance of suicide prevention. This opportunity was especially emotional because my father spent many years working behind television cameras. Standing in front of the camera, sharing a message inspired by his life, was truly a full-circle moment.

I was also honored to serve as a keynote speaker at L’Anse Creuse North High School, encouraging young people to recognize their worth, practice kindness, and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength. Through my involvement with Kevin’s Song, I continued supporting suicide prevention initiatives, including serving as a volunteer coordinator for the beautiful Starry Starry Night gala. I also participated in community outreach and resource events, connecting with individuals and families while sharing messages of hope and healing.

Beyond these events, I continued my advocacy through the Speaking of Love Podcast, my books, and my work facilitating support groups for suicide loss survivors. These experiences are especially meaningful because I understand firsthand the complicated journey of grief. Creating spaces where people feel heard, understood, and supported remains one of the greatest honors of my life.

As I look back on September, I realize that this work is about so much more than television appearances, speaking engagements, or community events. It is about human connection. It is about breaking the silence surrounding suicide and mental health. Most importantly, it is about reminding people that their lives matter.

My father was a talented cameraman, a loving father, and a man whose life deserves to be remembered for far more than the circumstances of his death. Every conversation, every presentation, every act of service, and every message of encouragement is another opportunity to carry his legacy forward.

Although Suicide Prevention Awareness Month has ended, the mission continues every single day. I encourage everyone to check on their loved ones, extend compassion without judgment, and never underestimate the power of simply being present for someone who may be struggling.

To every organization, volunteer, community partner, friend, and supporter who walked alongside me throughout September, thank you. Your kindness and commitment mean more than words can express.

I cannot change what happened to my father, but I can continue honoring his life through the love I share with others.

September was 30 days of love, but my commitment to spreading love is a lifetime promise.

My heart is my brand. Spreading love is my oxygen. ❤️