For the DiTucci Family, the loss of Kari - beloved wife, mother, and friend - on January 9, 2014, was a turning point that forever changed the course of their lives. Her passing left behind three young children who now faced not only the overall challenges of growing up, but also the unimaginable task of navigating grief at such a tender age. It was a time filled with unanswered questions, overwhelming emotions, and the daunting uncertainty of how to move forward.

 

With the support of friends, extended family, their community, and services of the Long Island Crisis Center (LICC), they began to take one small step at a time. They learned that healing wasn’t about “getting over” the loss, but about carrying Kari’s memory forward - honoring her wit, her kindness, her empathy, her deep love for learning, and her gift for passing knowledge to others. She had been a shining example to her children and all who knew her, a woman whose generosity of spirit left an indelible mark.

 

The DiTucci Family has found strength in sharing their story. Speaking openly about their grief has not only helped them heal, but also connected them to other families facing similar pain. They discovered the power of empathy and community - the comfort in knowing they were not alone. Every year, participating in the LICC’s Walk event has become a sacred tradition, a chance to “walk with” Kari in spirit, surrounded by others who understand.

 

Over the years, they have reached milestones that Kari would have been proud to witness - high school and college graduations, new careers, birthdays, anniversaries, even road test victories. But their greatest accomplishment, they say, has been turning grief into strength, and choosing to welcome each day with hope and gratitude.

Their message to others walking this difficult road is simple but powerful: Always keep fighting. Some days will feel impossible, but each step you take honors the memory of the one you’ve lost. Accept help, cherish connections, and look for light even in the smallest of moments.

For the DiTucci Family, Kari’s spirit is still ever-present. They carry her in the lessons she taught, in the love she gave, and in the memories they made together. Each year’s Walk is not only a tribute to her, but a reminder that, like the stars in the sky, every light matters - and the world shines brightest when those lights shine together.

 

The LICC is honored to recognize the DiTucci Family as our 2025 “Persons of the Year.” For the past 11 years, following the tragic loss of Kari to suicide, the DiTuccis have been deeply connected to our organization’s mission - offering compassion, strength, and hope to others walking a similar path of grief. Through sharing their personal story, they have touched countless families during their most difficult times. Their unwavering support of the LICC, whether through fundraising efforts or actively spreading awareness about the work we do, has made a lasting impact on many lives and the community we serve.