This past week, a road was closed in Coolidge, Michigan. It wasn’t because of rain or snow, it was due to a man who was standing on a bridge and was threatening to kill himself.
Michigan State Police closed the road, but thought quickly and got semi-trucks to come through to the bridge. All-in-all 13 trucks lined up, side-by-side, and eventually the situation was handled…
It all began at 1 AM on Tuesday, April 24th, when police were called out to stop a man from jumping into the highway traffic. Once they got the trucks positioned, if the man decided to jump down, the trucks would break his fall.
The Police tweeted out a photo along with the caption:
“This photo does show the work troopers and local officers do to serve the public. But also in that photo is a man struggling with the decision to take his own life.
Please remember help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.”
This photo does show the work troopers and local officers do to serve the public. But also in that photo is a man struggling with the decision to take his own life. Please remember help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. pic.twitter.com/RBAlCIXT1o
— MSP Metro Detroit (@mspmetrodet) April 24, 2018
The tweet went viral and the response was positive as can be. If the police, along with the truckers, hadn’t acted swiftly, the outcome might have been much different.
Here are a few of the best responses:
“That was a very clever idea. Thanks to the MSP and those truckers who helped save a life Don’t forget everyone that September is Suicide Prevention Awareness month.”
“Absolutely awesome to see everyone working together in this sad situation and ultimately saving a life! Congratulations to all involved.”
Thank you for your posting. It is nice to see how police and community (the truck drivers) come together to remind someone of their value. This compassion is wonderful to see.
— Kellie Nichols (@keljnic) April 24, 2018
“This is AMAZING! This demonstrates love, care, selflessness, and Heroism! You all ARE the 13 Heroes! Aboslutely Amazing!
We need more of you in this world, we thank you for reminding us that we can care! We can take a moment! We can Make a differance!!!!!! Outstanding!!!! ”
This photo brings tears — those drivers and their trucks, coordinated by police, wrapped a GIANT HUG around that person, reminding him/her that they matter and are cared for, even by complete strangers! What a beautiful, kind gesture …
— Anne Drissel (@AnnieBD) April 24, 2018
“This photo brings tears — those drivers and their trucks, coordinated by police, wrapped a GIANT HUG around that person, reminding him/her that they matter and are cared for, even by complete strangers! What a beautiful, kind gesture.”
We don’t have to wait till September to highlight suicide prevention though. Make sure you know the warning signs to look for in anyone you know so you can help them through their tough times.
The following are a few signs to look for according to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline website:
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Extreme mood swings
Feel free to check out their website and donate to help save a life here!