“Suicide happens to others,” said Patti Cullen of Platteville. “Or so we thought until losing our son Ben.”

Ben Cullen, 27, died of suicide in Onalaska Nov. 11.

“As suicide survivors left behind, we are overwhelmed with emotions, thoughts and questions,” she said. “We review every minute before their death, sifting through the wreckage, looking for answers, a reason, and some insight. We’re left with feelings of hopelessness, despair, loneliness and anguish. We question how we will go on. ... We’ve learned the best support comes from other suicide survivors.”

Upon finding out that the nearest support groups for those who know people who committed suicide are in the Madison area, Patti Cullen is starting a Suicide Survivor Support group in this area. The group’s first meeting will be in the Municipal Building, 75 N. Bonson St., Platteville, Tuesday, March 10 from 7 to 9 p.m.

The group will meet the second Tuesday in March starting March 10. The meetings are free.

For more information, contact Patti Cullen, 732-4728, patticullen05@gmail.com.