PHOTO: “We are worth it. We are worthy, and we deserve to be here,” survivor Sharina Clark shared to an audience of community members, healthcare providers, and local leaders at the official launch of the Blue Ribbon Initiative. During the ceremony, acting governor David M. Apatang joined Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. CEO Esther Muna and Community Guidance Center Addiction Service Unit administrator Joe Kevin Villagomez and their staff to officially designate September 2024 as National Recovery Month and National Suicide Prevention Month in the CNMI. The designation includes the Commonwealth in the national commemoration, underscoring the islands’ ongoing commitment to mental health awareness and accessible support services. “It is especially important to work with our frontliners, Department of Public Safety and Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services officers in particular, who will most likely be the ones that will reach those in crisis first,” said Villagomez.