Local group aims to bring laughter to Chillicothe

CHILLICOTHE— They say laughter is the best medicine and the Ross County Suicide Prevention Coalition thinks it can help, which is why the group is putting on a Laughing Out Loud event for seniors in the area where they can gather to mingle and laugh while watching the new movie "80 for Brady" at Danbarry Cinemas.

Ross County Suicide Prevention Coalition is a nonprofit organization that aims to reduce the number of suicide deaths and attempts in the county as well as provides valuable information to the community about suicide. The Elderly Committee of this coalition focuses on those in the area who are over 55 years of age.

The movie, which stars Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Sally Field and Rita Moreno, follows four friends who take a trip to the SuperBowl to see Tom Brady. The idea for this event came about after committee member Kathy Sims watched the movie and found it hilarious. The committee often has events in the community to encourage people to get out and learn about suicide prevention but Sims said this time they thought the event should include laughter and joy.

"With so much tragedy and negative things going on we needed somewhere where you could just sit and laugh," said Sims.

The movie will start at 12:30 p.m. May 15, but guests are encouraged to come at 11:30 a.m. as there will be several vendors set up to talk about suicide prevention, how to handle loneliness and more. These resources can be a great help to those struggling and looking for help. There will also be door prizes for moviegoers.

The movie along with a small drink and popcorn are free to those 55 and older. Those interested in attending the event can call Sims at 740-649-9767, the deadline to register is May 4.

Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Local group aims to bring laughter to Chillicothe