Finding Purpose Through Awareness and Service

The hustle and bustle of the holidays is quickly approaching. Many of us feel there just isn’t enough time in a day to accomplish everything we need to do—and sometimes, that can make it easy to overlook the quiet struggles of others. It’s a season that reminds us to pause, take a breath, and look around. Not everyone’s battles are visible, and not all struggles are financial.

Suicide continues to rise, and for many, it feels like the only way out of the pain they’re experiencing.

It has been a little over six years since my Navy veteran brother took his own life. Many of his friends and family knew he was struggling, but I don’t think any of us ever imagined he would make that choice to end his pain. He is deeply missed and always on our minds.

Our group, the Ohio Western Reserve Ladies, lives by the mission “No Veteran Buried Alone,” but we are so much more than that. We’re growing—stronger, more informed, and more involved in the lives of veterans and their families every day.

After losing my own brother to suicide, I did some soul searching. I decided I wanted to be part of the solution—to help raise awareness and make a difference in preventing veteran suicide. With an average of 17 veterans a day taking their lives, the need is overwhelming.

Attending awareness events changed my life.

New Day Cleveland’s live show at MGM Casino, featuring the Travis Mills Foundation, opened my eyes to the incredible work being done to support veterans—not just those facing physical challenges, but also those in need of mental and emotional healing.

REVS22 in Lorain, Ohio, was another powerful experience. The event included a 22K run, 11K ruck, 2.2-mile walk/run, and more—all focused on awareness and remembrance. I proudly completed the 2.2-mile walk, reflecting on those who struggle daily and reminding myself that every step counted for them—and for my own mental health.

The following day, I volunteered at Dillon’s Place, in what was possibly the worst weather November could throw at us. Yet hundreds still came out in support of the family and foundation created in memory of a local veteran’s son, Dillon. I helped at the nutrition station for participants in the MURPH Challenge—run, pull-ups, push-ups, air squats, and another run—all completed in honor of those we’ve lost to suicide.

Being part of OWRL has become one of the greatest passions of my life. Getting to know so many veterans through events like these is heartwarming, emotional, and deeply educational. Attending burials and supporting families has given me a renewed sense of purpose.

Standing at Final Salutes for the hundreds of veterans who are laid to rest each year—many without family or friends—reminds me why this mission matters so much. Hopefully, by showing up and serving, I can make even a small difference in someone’s life.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out.📞 Dial 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line,or text 838255 any time, day or night.

You matter. We care.

By bringing suicide and veteran suicide awareness into more conversations, we can—and will—make a difference.

Written by: Renee Lynn Kosik, Secretary/Treasurer, Ohio Western Reserve Ladies — No Veteran Buried Alone.

A founding member of OWRL, Renee’s commitment is deeply personal. Her father, brother, and father-in-law—all U.S. veterans—are interred at OWRNC. Serving with OWRL allows her to honor them while ensuring every veteran receives dignity, remembrance, and presence.