“Proclaiming September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in the Village of Manhattan is an important reminder that every life matters and no one should ever feel like they are facing their struggles alone,” Adrieansen told Patch. “We have a responsibility as a community to look out for one another, to have the difficult conversations, and to make sure those who are struggling know there is help and hope available. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to learn the warning signs, reach out to someone who may be struggling, and help us build a community where no one feels alone.”
As part of the designation, Lewis encourages residents and businesses to display purple and teal ribbons on their property in honor of Jackson. Lewis hand-makes the ribbons for distribution, making them available for pickup at her family’s home and also at Village Hall.
“To see all the ribbons around town—I have mixed feelings,” Lewis said. “I’m keeping my son’s memory alive, keeping Jackson’s name relevant. But it’s also a sad thing, because we have lost a few people to suicide—even in our small community—over the last several years.”
Manhattan Beauty Tech Salon decorates their display windows in honor of Jackson Lewis. Courtesy of Manhattan Beauty Techs Salon.
‘A Happy Kid’
Jackson would have graduated from Lincoln-Way West High School in 2023. The soccer player and avid runner seemed to be a happy kid, Lewis told Patch. He was active in sports and socially. In junior high, he ran track and cross country. As a freshman at Lincoln-Way West, he played soccer. Everything seemed to be going well for him until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a shutdown and restrictions in place, Lewis said Jackson lost his connections and his outlet in sports. Even with the changes in his routines, though, no one knew of his suicidal ideation.