GREEN BAY, WI – (WGBW & WISS) – Acclaimed author, speaker, and mom, Kristen Anderson shares a story of hope and live music in support of Mental Health Awareness Month and suicide prevention. The Stories and Songs event will be at The Daily Buzz on Walnut Street in Green Bay, on Thursday, May 9th at 6:00 p.m.

Anderson has devoted her life to helping people and spreading awareness for suicide prevention.  

“There’s always so much hope and help available. I think sometimes that is not well known,” said Anderson. “And how common it is to struggle. It’s okay if you’re struggling. It’s just a season.”

Anderson lost her legs when she tried to commit suicide by lying across the train tracks when she was just 17 years old. 

“It was in a moment of hopelessness,” said Anderson. “What is interesting about it is that I didn’t really want to die. I just didn’t know what the answer was. I didn’t know what to do anymore.” 

Now Anderson is the author of the bestselling book, Life, In Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice. She is also a highly sought-after speaker sharing her story with audiences around the globe. 

As the founder of Reaching You Ministries, she helps individuals struggling with depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.  

“One of the things I tell people is to reach out for help. And keep reaching out for help until you get all of the help you need,” said Anderson. “And find the words to identify your feelings. Whether it’s that you that feel empty; you feel broken; you feel lost; you feel like you don’t have a purpose.” 

Proceeds from the Stories and Songs event at the Daily Buzz Thursday will benefit Reaching You Ministries. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door.