The first Million Broken Hearts Monument is Finally Here. The idea for the monument was first realized when Jill proceeded to the Memorial Monument company in Pocatello, Idaho. She looked at various monument ideas and designs. She then brought her ideas to the Malad Cemetery Committee and presented the idea to the Malad City Council. The idea was approved, and fundraising began by The American Legion holding a Bingo night and donating all the proceeds to the monument.

The saying: “Each Life that is Ended Through Violence, Suicide or Accidental Death, Leaves Behind A Million Broken Hearts. ” Was originally published in Jill Vanderwood’s book, Off Target: The Path You Choose #1.

Other activities included: a raffle quilt, selling ice cream and water bottles on the Fourth of July and the Welch Festival. Donations came in from the Nell J. Redfield Hospital and Long-term care, and individuals and businesses around Malad City.

The whole project was derailed during the pandemic

When it resumed in 2022, the City became involved with a donation. Brad Horsely from Horsely’s Funeral Home ordered the stone monument at a great discount and donations were made directly to the Malad City Foundation so that the monument was tax free.

The Million Broken Hearts monument was placed in a prominent spot at the Malad Cemetery in May of 2024, and was dedicated on May 27^th.

https://www.idahostatejournal.com/news/local/a-million-broken-hearts-malad-to-dedicate-monument-for-victims-of-suicide-domestic-violence-or/article_f9cc24de-08d8-11ef-88fc-af0a7ca29700.html

During the Suicide Prevention week, in September 2024, members of the community will meet at Malad High School at 6:00 on Tuesday, September 3. There will be speakers and information booths set up. Each participant will be given ‘Walking Tacos and annual Suicide Walk for Awareness, Prevention and Remembrance will begin at 7:15, where we will gather at the Million Broken Hearts Monument at the Malad, Idaho City Cemetery.