"We want you to feel hope": Overflow Foundation event brings awareness to suicide, mental illness

Bianca Moorman, Aiken Standard, S.C.
·2 min read

Sep. 25—The Overflow Foundation had its second annual Music and Mocktails event at Generations Parks on Saturday evening in Aiken to raise awareness about suicide and mental health in the community.

The event is held each September for Suicide Prevention month, included food, games, mental health resources and music from Cody Webb.

"We want you to know that your life matters and that you are loved," said Terry Lee, founder and executive director of the Overflow Foundation.

The Overflow Foundation was founded in 2019 by Terry Lee after she lost her son Phillip Lee Jr. by suicide on Sept. 6, 2018. The mission of the Overflow Foundation is to infuse the message of hope of those who have dealt with suicide, mental illness and substance abuse disorders.

"A night like this would have been something he would enjoy," Phillip Lee Sr. said.

He said music was a part of his son's life and is a good way to celebrate his life while not focusing on the darkness.

"So we want to shine the spotlight on the hope and connectedness," he said.

First time attendee Jessica Quinn said she is huge believer in looking at ways to combat suicide in the community.

"I just wanted to come out and support the community and see what Aiken is all about," Quinn said.

Another attendee Jersey Mary, who is from New Jersey said it's about time people are talking about mental health and suicide.

"I have family members who have committed suicide ," she said.

Kaylee Heath personally knew Phillip Lee Jr. and said the event was a positive way to keep his memory alive, as well as get the community connected to mental health resources.

Webb said it was a privilege for him to be part of Saturday's event, and he has learned a lot from Terry Lee.

Military veteran and director of Aiken County Veteran Affairs in Aiken Dwight Bradham said the issue of suicide is something that is close to his heart because he has lost several friends to suicide. He feels like events like this are needed to bring more awareness to the issue.

"I think it will be able to show the community awareness and support here and hopefully folks that have a problem will reach out for help," Bradham said.

Phillip Lee Sr. said he hopes people who attended the event know they are not alone in their struggles.

"We want you to feel hope, want you to be encouraged, and you are not alone," he said.