Out of the Darkness

2013 Overnight – Washington, DC

Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk — June 1–2, 2013

The Tommy Fuss Team in Washington, DC

The Tommy Fuss Team thanks all of its donors, especially the anonymous donors who we can thank only through this site, for their encouragement and support. Together we raised over $45,000 to fund the important work of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention — its research, programs, advocacy, and support to those who suffer from mental illness and those affected by suicide.

We walked, not only for Tommy, but for all those we have lost to suicide. The 2013 Out of the Darkness Overnight is over…but our journey continues.

Click here to see Thank You Note to Donors.

Washington, DC through the Eyes of Tommy – 1996, 1997 & 2004

Our family took memorable trips to Washington, DC in 1996 and 1997. This year as we prepare for the 2013 Overnight in Washington, we look back fondly at these pictures that include Tommy and his family and Russell Benigno, Tommy's grandfather.

Tommy Fuss Team Walkers

RoseMary Fuss
Christian Mucha
Andrew Lombardi
Patrick Martin
Ryan Sullivan
Macauley McGinness
Theresa Sullivan
Blaze Johnson
Jill Carlson
Patrick Sullivan
Ray Salinas
Danny Fuss
Laura Kelly
Jordan Chapman

Washington, DC — June 1–2, 2013

The 2013 Out of the Darkness Overnight is over…but our journey continues.

2013 Crew

These wonderful women work through the night, supporting all walkers, providing nourishment and above all encouragement to complete the journey.

Susanne Carlson
Georgette Katuna
Janine Kurth
Kathy Goodfellow

The Tommy Fuss Team will never forget the Washington DC 2013 Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk. Arriving in the middle of the first heat wave of the season it was HOT! Even walking through the night temperatures remained in the 80s. The heat was offset by the beauty of our nation's Capital. Whether touring the city via Duck Tour or visiting the Air and Space Museum at the Smithsonian, we were struck by the history of our nation and all it stands for.

We gathered at the hotel Saturday afternoon for the Team's customary send off meal, savoring the air conditioning and creature comforts. Then off to begin the 17-mile walk through the night. The opening ceremony reminded us of what we were doing and why we were walking. It was a somber time of reflection and remembering–our son, our brother and our friend–and all those we've lost to suicide.

Tommy Fuss Team walker in front of the illuminated Capitol building during the 2013 DC Overnight Walk

Macauley McGinnis

Our journey began at dusk proceeding to the Mall in awe of the monuments and magnificent views. Walking along the Capitol we were treated to a "virtual tour" from our teammate, a former tour guide. Around midnight we reached Union Station and to the delight of some, the sprinklers in the park provided, those who dared, relief from the heat. We were greeted by familiar faces at Midnight Snack and enjoyed light refreshments. We literally walked in a circle before heading to Georgetown for the final leg of our journey. Finishing the walk we were greeted by the luminaria–a final tribute to our loved ones lost to suicide.

2013 Washington, DC — Photo Gallery

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AFSP staff and volunteers at White House staff meeting, 2013
AFSP delegation at White House for mental health and suicide prevention discussion, 2013

This was the Tommy Fuss Team's 7th year participating in the Overnight Walks. We've walked through New York City, Chicago, Boston and San Francisco. When 2,000 individuals gather and walk 18 miles through the night, we are making a statement.

In Washington DC we were able to make yet another statement as well. On Friday afternoon a group of 30 AFSP staff and volunteers participated in a one hour meeting with White House staff to discuss issues of mental illness and suicide prevention.

We remain hopeful…

— RoseMary Fuss

Washington, DC through the Eyes of Tommy – 1996, 1997 & 2004

Our family took memorable trips to Washington, DC in 1996 and 1997. This year as we prepare for the 2013 Overnight in Washington, we look back fondly at these pictures that include Tommy and his family and Russell Benigno, Tommy's grandfather.

Washington DC family memory 1
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Tommy returned to Washington DC on a high school field trip in 2004. These are pictures he took at that time.

Washington DC 2004 field trip photo 1
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Back to Past Out of the Darkness Walks