Honor Casey Piscura's life and work on Thursday

Editor: Thursday is World Suicide Prevention Day — a day to remember, raise awareness and remind one another that hope and help are available. For Seed Peace, this day carries an especially personal meaning. Sept. 10 was also the birthday of Casey Piscura, whose life and legacy inspired the creation of Seed Peace: Casey's Fund Supporting Farmers. Casey died by suicide, leaving behind a family and community determined to honor his life by helping others find support before it is too late. Suicide affects families, friends, workplaces and communities in ways that can last a lifetime. Farmers and agricultural producers face unique challenges, including financial uncertainty, isolation, long work hours, unpredictable weather and the pressure of carrying on a family business. Studies have found that farmers are at significantly greater risk of suicide than the general population. Yet too many people continue to suffer in silence. Seed Peace was created in Casey's memory to support the health and well-being of farmers by helping provide access to mental health and wellness services. We believe that asking for help is a sign of strength — not weakness — and that no farmer should have to face life's challenges alone.