BUTLER TWP — An emotional event on Wednesday at Alameda Park focused on eliminating the stigma associated with mental health issues and sharing the irreplaceable qualities of the 11 people whose faces will be missed at the Grapevine Center.

The center's annual Remembrance and Celebration of Life Rally drew 75 people to the Carousel Shelter to remember Charlie Blatt, David Bobby, Rodney Cosner, Seven Currence, Frances Doubt, Kenneth Freehling, Edna Hartman, David Kennedy, Sean Kramer, Kelsie Parker and Matthew Waldor, all of whom have died in the past year.

All frequented the Grapevine Center, where those facing challenges from mental illness, addiction, homelessness or overwhelming life circumstances can drop in to socialize or actively pursue recovery.

A friend, family member or supporter paid tribute to each of the lost, sharing their positive qualities and the heartbreak their struggles with mental health issues and ultimate deaths have wrought.

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