The Hilinksi family are our heroes. After losing their son, Tyler, to suicide, they created Hilinksi’s Hope, a non-profit that funds and supports suicide prevention and mental health awareness at universities. The love that brought Hilinksi’s Hope to Tyler’s own Washington State University has spread nationally, reaching the University of South Carolina, where Tyler’s younger brother, Ryan, is now a star quarterback.
The impact of Hilinski’s Hope is bigger than football, which is why there was intense backlash after a South Carolina newspaper published an insensitive headline following last Saturday’s game. The State quickly took to social media to address the controversy, claiming: “The connection between the headline and the foundation was unintentional.”
The newspaper’s apology does not seem to be enough for many, including President Bob Caslen, Athletic Director Ray Tanner, and Head Football Coach Will Muschamp, all of the University of South Carolina. The three have released a joint statement, calling on The State to do more to rectify their mistake:
While we appreciate The State’s apology, actions speak louder than words. We immediately took to Twitter, challenging The State to stand by their words with a donation to Hilinski’s Hope and a front page feature on the heroic advocacy of the Hilinski family.
Luckily, not even an uninformed and offensive headline has been able to interfere with the outpouring of positivity and public awareness inspired by the Hilinskis. Just last week, we wrote about the recent Alabama vs. South Carolina game, when a stadium full of thousands of fans paid tribute to the Hilinski family during Suicide Prevention week. South Carolina’s next opponents at the University of Missouri followed suit, also honoring the Hilinskis’ efforts with their students. There is a ripple effect with awareness, love and hope rising in locker rooms and at stadiums across the country.
Many people have donated to Hilinski’s Hope, to show their support for this important organization in the wake of the objectionable headline. Remember: hope never sinks. The State, what will you do to keep hope afloat?
Ryan Hilinski and Kelly Hilinski embrace after the South Carolina game
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “home” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
