Jamie Tworkowski, author of “To Write Love On Her Arms,” is coming to Oakland University to speak about suicide and depression prevention among people.

Tworkowski will speak on Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Banquet Rooms of the Oakland Center.

According to Jean Ann Miller, director of the Center for Student Activities, he’s nationally known on this issue. She said his cause is about prevention, not reaction.

“Our hope is that he will bring a different kind of atmosphere with him to campus,” Oakland University Student Body Vice President,  Robbie Willford, said. “By having someone of his stature and by fostering the discussions that he brings, we’re able to reach out to people who can relate. It brings a diverse topic to campus and we can reach a variety of students.”

 

Renee’s story 

“To Write Love On Her Arms” started in 2006 when Tworkowski was trying to help his friend, Renee, who was struggling with depression, drug addiction, self-injury and attempted suicide.

“The night I met her (Renee), she wrote the words ‘f-word up’ across her forearm with a razor blade,” Tworkowski said.

He wrote the story after spending five days with Renee after she was denied entry to a treatment center in Orlando, Fla. Tworkowski started selling t-shirts locally to raise funds for her treatment.

His two-page story started online, then grew nationally and is now worldwide.

Tworkowski said last year he traveled to around 40 schools giving speeches about his paper.

“At the end of the day, we are just trying to move people to get the help they need and deserve and move people to choose to stay alive,” Tworkowski said.

Today, “To Write Love On Her Arms” is a non-profit organization to provide hope, encouragement and resources to those dealing with depression, suicidal thoughts, self-injury and drug addiction.

“Jamie is someone who wants to support those who have suffered in the past and empower them,” Williford said.

 

Contact Campus Editor Stephanie Preweda via email at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @stephsocool