Keep Another Tomorrow: Semicolon tattoo event Sept. 17

PLATTSBURGH | September is Suicide Awareness month, and Keep Another Tomorrow Foundation (KAT) has coordinated with Majorink Northern New York Tattoo studio on Oak Street to host a semicolon tattoo event on Sept. 17. The semicolon is a simple mark with a big message. A symbol for suicide awareness, it invites connection to the next thought instead of finishing a sentence: Your story isn't over, keep going. Keep Another Tomorrow (KAT) was founded by loved ones after the death of Katrina Bodrogi Bouchard three years ago to strengthen suicide prevention and awareness efforts with grant funding for school programs, scholarships, camp programs and coalition outreach. Julie Bouchard serves on the foundation board. Semicolon tattoo sessions in Plattsburgh will support ongoing KAT efforts, she said, a portion of each $50 tattoo will be donated to the foundation. Appointments aren't necessary, the tattoos are available first come, first served, Bouchard said. The semicolon is part of the KAT logo, and Majorink Northern New York's Sept. 17 semicolon sessions help convey a wider message: "You are not alone. We are here for you." Four Majorink Plattsburgh tattoo artists are participating: Gerard Greene, Heidi Tatro, Shannon Shippee and Paolina Emerson. Tattoos will be available in turns as people arrive. Bouchard said she spoke with Greene about the idea based on an event held in the city 10 years ago. "And he was more than happy to do it. That day, KAT is going to have a table set up with information about the foundation and our support outreach. The Clinton County NY Coalition to Prevent Suicide is working on a table to set up, too." SEMICOLON In their search for a symbol, KAT found alliance with aspects of Project Semicolon goals to raise suicide awareness and build support. An international movement, Project Semicolon is aimed at tackling "root causes of mental health challenges" and helping improve access and awareness for preventive care. KAT's common goals focus efforts to reduce the stigma suicide carries; encourage help-seeking; provide appropriate support; reduce the impact of suicide on survivors; and work together to make a bigger difference. National information shows suicide was responsible for 48,824 deaths in 2024. An estimated 14.3 million adults seriously thought about suicide in 2024. And 2.2 million attempted suicide. Clinton County Health Department has found that "middle-aged adults, ages 20 to 50, and men are disproportionately affected, and men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women." START WITH A CONVERSATION Bouchard's message invites community members to join with the KAT Foundation to raise awareness and spread a message of hope. "Suicide prevention starts with a conversation. This event is an opportunity connect with others, learn about resources, and show support to those who may be struggling. You are not alone. Your life matters. There is always someone willing to listen." Majorink Northern NY Tattoo is located at 10 Oak Street in Plattsburgh. Semicolon tattoo sessions on Sept.17 are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 988 Bouchard said KAT is also focused on increasing awareness about the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline, an important resource for people in crisis and also for their loved ones trying to find help. The hotline can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling or texting 988. A call, text, or chat to the 988 Lifeline is confidential and open to people in crisis and their loved ones. The 988 Lifeline provides judgment-free care. Connecting with someone can help save your life. KAT INITIATIVE The KAT Foundation has several more events planned this month. "We are also going to set up our table with information at the Battle of Plattsburgh, downtown, all three days," Bouchard said. Another fundraiser is set for Sept. 16 at Chipotle Mexican Grill, 200 Consumer Square in Plattsburgh, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with 25 percent of all food sales donated to the KAT Foundation. Keep Another Tomorrow has more information and resources online: keepanothertomorrow.org To reach KAT via email: keepanothertomorrow@gmail.com Or visit their Facebook page: Keep Another Tomorrow Foundation, Inc. For immediate crisis support CALL or TEXT 988. To learn more about Project Semicolon: projectsemicolon.com

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Keep Another Tomorrow: Semicolon tattoo event Sept. 17

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