ISLAND HEIGHTS – It takes strength to be a police officer. It takes strength to put your life on the line as a first responder. It takes strength to ask for help.
The 5th Annual Survivor Day 5K Run/Walk was held in Island Heights as a fundraiser to promote mental health awareness. The walk is held on the third Saturday in November, recognized as International Survivors Of Suicide Loss Day.
This year’s race was dedicated to Berkeley Police Lt. Anthony “Butchie” Kurnel III. He was born and raised in Bayville. He was married with three children and a grandchild.
“He was the cornerstone to his family and held such a bright presence in the community,” organizers said. “He was 55 years old when he lost his life to the silent killer of mental health and suicide. His legacy will live on as we remember the countless lives he has touched, all the laughs we’ve had and all of the people he’s lent his hand out to help. We remember Butchie, not only for the challenges he faced, but for the joy he brought to everyone, his dedication to his family, and the care that he brought to every aspect of life.”
On a brisk morning, a large group gathered to remember his legacy, and to bring attention to the need for people to address their mental health as they would any other health issue. The crowd symbolized that you are not alone. The run/walk provides momentum to the lives of those left behind, allowing them to move forward while remembering those they lost.
“Sometimes, the people you wouldn’t think need help are the ones who do,” Berkeley Police Chief Kevin Santucci said. “It’s important to recognize it and that we talk about it and not leave it in the dark. We should make people comfortable to talk about it and help them find the resources they need.”
Joe Chester, who spoke at the event about his uncle, said “Butchie was my hero. The reason I’m a police officer today is because of him.”
Kirsten Schenk first organized this event in honor of her son, Christian Schenk, who passed away on April 12, 2020. He would have turned 33 this year. The Toms River High School South graduate had just become a Sheriff’s Officer. Christian left behind a wife and three young children.
Organizer Kevin Schmiegle said that suicide impacts police, firefighters and first aid members because they are under a lot of pressure and everyone depends on them. There are also people from the military who came home from combat and now are fighting battles nobody can see. They’re not looking for sympathy or pity but for understanding.
“Everyone knows someone who this impacts,” he said. “Suicide is endemic in this country.”
At the front of the walk were members of NJ Cop To Cop, which provides 24/7 peer support to law enforcement and their families. Their goal is to help a fellow officer who is going through a tough time by letting them talk to another cop who understands what they may be feeling. They have ways to get a hold of them on their website at njcop2cop.com which includes phone, email, chat and webinars.
