FLC WellPAC, Student Union Productions Present “Cracked, Not Broken: The Kevin Hines Story”

Kevin Hines, suicide survivor and author of “Cracked, Not Broken,” will share his story and how he learned to manage mental illness at 6:30 p.m. on October 12 at the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College.

“I was lucky enough to hear Kevin speak in 2017, and it was incredibly impactful,” states Veronica Krupnick, recent FLC graduate and former Wellness Peer Advisory Council president. “I believe that Kevin speaks our community’s language. One of his main messages – ‘it’s OK to not be OK, but it’s not OK not to ask for help,’ is powerful and life changing.”

Hines is among the one percent of known survivors who have attempted suicide by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder before his jump, he learned how to live with the illness and became an activist for mental health. Today, Hines is dedicated to spreading a message of hope and sharing his strategies for living mentally well. He is one of the most respected and admired voices of lived experience; his story is a remarkable testament to the strength of the human spirit.

“It is no secret that La Plata County has one of the highest suicide rates in our state, and in the nation,” states Kendra Gallegos Reichle, FLC Student Wellness Coordinator. “A key preventive measure against suicide is creating a community that is open about mental health, suicide and supporting each other. We want to focus on instilling hope in our community.”

“Cracked, Not Broken” is a free event for all community members, but seating is limited. Doors open at 6 p.m. Because suicide is a complicated topic, parents should use discretion if bringing children.

Event sponsors include La Plata County 4H & the C.O.D.Y. Project, San Juan Basin Public Health, Alpine Bank, Axis Health Systems, 5280 Drywall & Repairs, the Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County, the Strater Hotel, Fort Lewis College Community Relations, and individual donors. 

For more information on the event and supplemental WellPAC programming, visit www.fortlewis.edu/kevinhines or contact Kendra Gallegos Reichle at 970-247-7508. For more information on Kevin Hines, visit www.kevinhinesstory.com.