Out of heartbreak, one local family is building hope for veterans across the region. Following the devastating loss of her son, Benjamin, to suicide on September 4, 2023, Suzy Kroll and her family have launched Ben’s Heart Ministry — a grassroots mission aimed at raising awareness about veteran suicide and offering support to those battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Benjamin, a military veteran, fought a personal 17-and-a-half-year battle with combat-related PTSD. His death placed him among the estimated 22 U.S. veterans who take their own lives every day — a staggering statistic that now fuels a growing movement in his name.
“He wanted to help other veterans, even while fighting his own demons,” Kroll shared in a social media video. “Now it’s my mission to make sure it’s never too late for another veteran.”
Just weeks after Benjamin’s passing, the ministry held its first meeting on October 22, 2023. Since then, it has grown with the support of family, friends, and community members, including close friend Greg Sutton — affectionately known as “Brother Cornbread.” Meetings take place on the first and third Saturdays of each month at LifeHouse, 915 E Street in Texarkana, Arkansas, providing a safe and welcoming place for veterans and families to gather, share, and heal.
A cornerstone of the ministry is Ben’s Walk — a tribute inspired by Benjamin’s goal to walk 2.2 miles every day during May 2023, ultimately completing a 22-mile journey on Memorial Day to honor the 22 veterans lost daily to suicide. Kroll now challenges others to join that mission by taking on their own “22” activities.
“Walk 2.2 miles, pray for 22 minutes, give 22 words of encouragement, or plant 22 flags in your yard,” Kroll said. “Do anything — just do it with purpose and in memory of those fighting battles we can’t see.”
This Memorial Day, the Kroll family is inviting the public to join them for the full 22-mile walk in Benjamin’s honor. Local businesses like Whatley Industries and Three Chicks Feed and Seed have already stepped in with support, helping spread the ministry’s message.
Participants are encouraged to post their stories, photos, or videos on social media using the hashtags #Bensheart22 or #B❤️22, and to connect with Ben’s Heart Ministry on Facebook and TikTok.
“This is more than just our story,” Kroll said. “It’s a story shared by thousands of families across the country. And we believe real change starts with one step — or 22.”
For more information or to get involved, visit Ben’s Heart Ministry on Facebook or connect through LifeHouse Church in Texarkana.
