Former WAOW TV anchor Neena Pacholke. Image courtesy: WAOW TV
RIB MOUNTAIN, WI (WSAU-WAOW) — The Granite House in Wausau to use what would have been Neena Pacholke’s 29th birthday to raise awareness for mental health.
The Walk to Remember is scheduled for Saturday at Rib Mountain State Park where residents will be encouraged to walk the face of the mountain to honor the former WAOW TV news anchor and reporter. Former WDEZ Morning Show co-host Chandra Lynn is helping to organize the event in honor of her friend. “We thought it would be a great way to get out there and talk about mental health awareness,” said Lynn.
Her father, Aaron Pacholke, told WAOW TV walking up the mountain was time well spent with his daughter.”We would get up and be able to watch the sunrise. It was so special to get up early, park at the base, walk up and then get pictures with the sunrise. It’s just so beautiful. For Neena and me and us, it was our special thing.”
Lynn adds that the challenge of making it to the top is not unlike the challenge of taking care of your own struggles. “Yeah, it’s a great workout but it is tough. And mental health is tough; it’s hard to talk about for some people, and it’s hard to go through. Whether it’s you personally or somebody else you know. It’s very symbolic to walk up and think about Neena.”
There is no formal start or end time for the event. Anyone is encouraged to walk the route on their own time. Lynn and others will be on hand to distribute materials regarding mental health resources in the community. The event will also serve as a save the date for a fundraiser later this fall that will be held in Pacholke’s honor, benefiting the Granite House.
Pacholke died by suicide in August 2022. Her birthday would have been Saturday.
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