Forty years ago, Jim Westra lost his youngest brother, David, to suicide.
Jim experienced emotions many suicide loss survivors feel, including grief, embarrassment, and guilt. He recalls how helpful it was when people reached out to support him during such a difficult time in his life. Now, he’s paying that forward and leaving a lasting impact on Samaritans and other loss survivors.
“Over the years, I’ve reached out to a number of people who have been impacted by suicide,” Jim says. “In sharing the evolution of my experience, I’ve tried to validate and affirm the emotions they’re feeling.”
Talking to other survivors helps me realize that the emotions I experienced when David passed away were quite common.
Among his many contributions to Samaritans, Jim has played a leadership role on the sponsorship committee for the 2026 Breakfast for Hope, which will take place May 5. The event has already raised more than $500,000 toward Samaritans’ lifesaving programs.
“Samaritans is close to my heart. The work they do for people who have been impacted by suicide is so important.”
“We are so grateful for Jim’s commitment to supporting our work,” said Kathy Marchi, Samaritans chief executive officer & president. “His networking, his commitment to philanthropy, and his willingness to share his brother’s story are all helping to make this year’s Breakfast for Hope one of our most successful events ever.”
Jim fondly remembers climbing Mount Washington every New Year’s Day with David, who was only 23 years old when he passed away. “He was a wonderful guy, but he never had a chance to leave his footprints in life. Sharing his story and talking about him helps me honor him.”
Breakfast for Hope
Join us on Tuesday, May 5, for a transformative morning of compassion at the annual Breakfast for Hope, celebrating our lifesaving impact and looking ahead to a future where everyone affected by suicide can find the support they need.
